Why create a forest conservation easement?
For a forest landowner, the primary purpose of a forest conservation easement is to protect timber resources and other natural resources such as wildlife, water, and open space by separating the right to subdivide and build on the property from other rights of ownership, and to generate income from unrealized highest and best use (HBU) potential. The landowner who gives up development rights continues to own and manage the land. Typically, governments and conservation groups buy easements. Also, there may be significant tax advantages for donating a conservation easement.
