Land Conservation Options

Conservation easement
Legal agreement between and landowner and a land trust or government agency permanently limiting a property owner's uses.

Outright land donation
Land is donated to a land trust or agency.

Donation of undivided partial interests
Interest in land are donated to land trust or agency over several years, until organization has full ownership.

Donation of land by will
Land is donated to land trust or agency at death.

Donation of remainder interest in land with reserved life estate
Land is donated to land trust, but owner (or others designated) continue to live there, usually until death.

Bargain sale of land
Land is sold to land trust or agency for a prie below fair market value.

Lease
Land is leased for a specified number of years to a land trust or individual, with restrictions placed on how it can be used.

Mutual covenant
A group of landowners agree to restrictions on their land use. May not involve a conservation group.

If you are interested in any of these options and would like to speak with someone at the Greenbelt Land Trust, please call 541.752.9609. You can also contact Karlene McCabe or Claire Fiegener via email.

 

Other Ways to Give

Outright Gifts of cash or other valuables can result in deductions from your federal income tax up to 50% of your adjusted gross income, and provide immediate resources for the Greenbelt.

Securities, including stocks, bonds and mutual funds, can be a valuable gift and can provide an income tax deduction for the full value of the securities. You also can benefit by avoiding capital gains taxes on highly appreciated securities.

Real Estate, such as a residence, vacation home, farm or forest land, or a vacant lot can be a much appreciated gift to the Greenbelt. If the land has important open space value, as determined by a staff inspection, the Greenbelt can provide appropriate protection. Other lands will be considered "trade land" and will be sold, with proceeds furthering the work of the Greenbelt. It is possible to make a gift of your home or vacation home that includes use of it during your lifetime under a Life Estate arrangement.

Bequests can allow your dedication to land protection to continue into the future. By including the Greenbelt in your will or trust, your estate tax bracket will be lowered and you will be assured that your contribution will be used to greatest advantage.

Retirement Plans offer an easy method to benefit the Greenbelt by making us a beneficiary of your IRA, 401(k) or other retirement plan. Such a gift avoids the income tax that is otherwise due on retirement plan funds.

Life Insurance can leverage your donation and multiply the amount you paid for the policy. The Greenbelt receives the proceeds without tax liability, administrative costs, or delays, and you may be able to take annual tax deductions for the premiums paid.

Charitable Trusts can provide a significant donation and at the same time provide an income cash flow for you and/or your beneficiaries. Trust arrangements can follow several different plans, which can be explored more fully if you are interested.