Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is ALC?
ALC is a private nonprofit land conservation organization that works with landowners and public agencies to conserve land through a variety of mechanisms including the donation or sale of land, conservation easements, habitat restoration and life estates. We are a 501 (c)(3) organization that is not a government agency.
Why should I work with ALC?
Conservation transactions are complex, involving a combination of business, tax, legal, political, real estate and environmental considerations. With a team of knowledgeable, professional staff and consultants, ALC brings a wealth of expertise to any land conservation challenge, saving landowners the time and trouble of doing it themselves. ALC works only with willing landowners. We respect landowner rights and confidentiality, and never seek to protect land through litigation or condemnation.
What does ALC do?
ALC helps the landowner through the transaction process by negotiating with government agencies, finding funding sources to acquire the land or a conservation easement and arranging for due diligence such as appraisals, environmental assessments and title work. We work nationwide, but we partner with local appraisers, lawyers, contractors and escrow agents.
What type of land is ALC interested in conserving?
From large scale farms and ranches to small trailheads or public access points, ALC projects come in all shapes and sizes. We seek to conserve land that contains scenic, recreational, agricultural, ecological or cultural values. Most of our projects are located in one of ALC’s five regional landscape Programs, though we work throughout the country as part of our American Landscapes Program. Please contact our Conservation Staff for more information.
What is a conservation easement?
A conservation easement is a legal agreement between a landowner and a land trust or government agency that permanently limits a property’s uses in order to protect its conservation values. For example, a conservation easement may restrict building new structures on a property, while allowing for continued ranching or agriculture. The easement allows the landowner to continue to own and use the land subject to the agreement, or to sell or pass it on to heirs. By selling a conservation easement, a landowner is compensated for agreeing not to develop the land.
What are the tax benefits associated with land conservation?
Landowners who choose to donate land or development rights, or sell property to ALC at a price below its appraised fair market value may be eligible for tax benefits. Tax benefits depend on a variety of factors, including the value of the donation, income level of the donor and the total value of the estate. Interested landowners should consult with a financial advisor and/or an attorney to fully understand these tax implications. ALC offers more information about Conservation Tax Incentives, including the August 2006 expansion of the federal conservation tax incentive for conservation easement donations.
How does ALC determine land value?
ALC determines the value for the property rights that we purchase based on an independent certified appraisal. In cases where a sale of the land is warranted, we work within market norms to bring a fair return to landowners.
Who pays for the costs of conserving land?
ALC works with landowners, private donors, public agencies and private foundations to generate the funds needed to acquire properties or interests in property, and to pay for appraisals, legal services, surveys and other costs.
Where can I read more about private land conservation?
We recommend the website of the Land Trust Alliance. If you are interested in conserving your property, and would like more information, please email info@alcnet.org or contact our Conservation Staff directly.
