Spokane, Wash. – The Inland Northwest Land Conservancy is calling on private landowners with sizable parcels to consider conservation easements, a voluntary legal tool that keeps land in its natural or working state while preventing future subdivision or unwanted development.
How a conservation easement works
When a property is placed under a conservation easement, the owner retains title and can continue farming, logging or other productive uses. However, the easement permanently restricts certain rights, such as subdividing the land or constructing new buildings, ensuring the land remains a source of clean water, clean air and wildlife corridors for future generations.
Local impact and recent successes
According to the nonprofit, easements have already protected more than 30,000 acres and 130 miles of waterways across the Inland Northwest over the past three decades. Notable preserved sites include popular recreation areas like Waikiki Springs in North Spokane, Cougar Bay near Coeur d’Alene, and the Liberty Lake Conservation Area.
Why larger parcels matter
Conservation Director Michael Crabtree explained that larger tracts—generally 100 acres or more—offer the greatest opportunity to create contiguous wildlife habitat and safeguard water resources that benefit the entire region. “We’re looking for larger tracks. It’s easier to make a big impact when we protect bigger pieces of land,” Crabtree said.
Financial incentives for landowners
The Conservancy notes that easements can provide significant tax benefits, including deductions for charitable contributions and potential reductions in property taxes. These incentives help offset the cost of forgoing certain development rights and make the agreement more attractive to owners who wish to preserve their land for family or community use.
Addressing past concerns
The Internal Revenue Service has previously flagged abuse of conservation easements, but the agency also acknowledges the public value of properly structured agreements. In a recent statement, the IRS highlighted that “properly used, conservation easements can provide an important public benefit by helping protect environmentally or historically significant property for the benefit of communities and future generations.”
Next steps for interested owners
Landowners interested in learning more about conservation easements can contact the Inland Northwest Land Conservancy directly. The nonprofit offers guidance through the entire process, from drafting the easement language to navigating the tax implications, ensuring that each agreement aligns with both the owner’s goals and the region’s environmental priorities.
Community benefits
Beyond preserving natural beauty, these easements help maintain the economic vitality of the area. By allowing continued farming and timber production, the Conservancy supports local jobs while protecting the land’s ecological functions. Residents enjoy cleaner water, healthier air and expanded outdoor recreation opportunities, reinforcing Spokane’s reputation as a place where families can thrive in harmony with nature.
Original reporting: KHQ Spokane (news) — read the source article.
