Safeguard Your Land
Strengthen Your Future
Conservation Easement Benefits
Conservation easements offer a wide range of benefits for landowners, their families, and the wider community. Every landowner’s financial and family situation is different. We strongly encourage you to consult with your CPA, attorney, or other trusted advisors to fully understand how a conservation easement could benefit your individual circumstances.
Financial Incentives
Federal Tax Deduction
If you donate a conservation easement (or a portion of its value), it can qualify as a charitable contribution on your federal income taxes, potentially spread over up to 16 years.
Colorado State Tax Credit
Landowners may be eligible for a transferable state tax credit worth up to 90% of the easement's donated value, capped at $5 million per easement. These credits can also be sold for cash income.
Reduced Estate Taxes
Placing an easement may lower the appraised value of the land, easing the tax burden for your heirs and helping keep land in the family.
Landowner and Legacy Benefits
Keep Land in Agricultural or Natural Use
You retain the ability to farm, ranch, recreate, or manage the land as you wish within the terms of the easement.
Protect Water Rights
Easements often tie water rights to the land, preventing water from being separated and sold.
Preserve Your Legacy
Ensure that your family’s stewardship and connection to the land are honored for generations to come.
Community Impact
Help protect the San Luis Valley’s water, wildlife, working lands, and way of life.