Conservation Easement

The South Dakota Parks and Wildlife Foundation specializes in acceptance and management of perpetual conservation easements, especially scenic easements adjacent to publicly-owned land such as a State Park.

A conservation easement is a voluntary restriction by the landowner on the use of his/her property to protect resources such as wildlife habitat, open spaces, or a scenic viewshed.

A gift of any easement to the South Dakota Parks and Wildlife Foundation is subject to an agreement between the donor and the Foundation that will specify which activities or structures are restricted. The value of the easement is determined by an appraisal based on the proposed restrictions.

In cases where the South Dakota Parks and Wildlife Foundation is not interested in the proposed easement, the Foundation knows and works with others in the conservation field that may be able to help the landowner achieve his/her objectives.

Staff is knowledgeable about easements. Contact us to arrange a free, confidential consultation.

Benefits Include:

The landowner continues to own the property subject to the easement and may sell it or pass it on to heirs. The owner may continue to carry out all unrestricted activities on the subject property.
The donor will receive a federal income tax deduction for the value of the easement. The deduction may be limited to a percentage of the donor's annual income. Deductions not used in the gift year may be carried forward.
The donor can work out the details of the easement granted the Foundation before the gift is made.
Depending on the desires of the donor, the land may be protected in perpetuity.
The donorâ€™s estate will enjoy reduced taxes and probate costs.
The donor will provide generous support for the SOUTH DAKOTA Parks and Wildlife Foundation.

Any calculations or examples are for illustration purposes only and should not be considered legal, accounting, or other professional advice.