Your Land is a Vital Link

Conserving land for future generations is the ultimate legacy. Conserved land filters our water, cleans our air, protects our open space, and provides a source of sustainable local products that support our local economy. As a land trust, we can help you meet your individual goals for conserving your property in the best possible way. Click the Encouraging Conservation link to learn more about your options.

To date, French Creek Valley Conservancy and its partners have conserved approximately 21,000 acres in the French Creek Watershed that will be protected forever for future generations to enjoy.

What Does Protected Mean?

“Protected” means protected from development. Land that is owned by a land trust remains open to the public for recreational purposes including hiking, fishing, hunting, bird watching, and more. Landowners may also donate land with specific intentions such as creating a wildlife refuge, which may limit some uses according to the landowner’s goals. Land that is placed in a conservation easement may or may not be open to public use, depending on the landowner’s goals and desires.

Land Conservation Has Economic Benefits

Donating land or conservation easements to a land trust for conservation purposes is truly a great legacy to leave for future generations. But, it may also provide significant financial advantages including:

● Federal income tax deductions
● Reduced real-estate taxes while holding re-sale value
● Reduced estate taxes

What are my Options?

Landowners wishing to conserve their land in perpetuity have many options and our land protection specialist can work with you to choose the best option for fitting your goals. To explore land conservation options, go to the Encouraging Conservation page.

Hear from Landowners who have Conserved their Land

Thinking about your options for conserving the land that you love? Watch two testimonials from landowners in the French Creek Watershed who have protected their property in perpetuity.