WAC’s Conservation Easements (CEs) are working lands easements. Designed to facilitate continued agricultural activities and forestry, within the New York City Watershed – two important elements of the greater Catskill economy. WAC CEs are Paid for Development Rights (“PDR”) easements; the landowner is paid for the value of the rights relinquished, based on the land’s Fair Market Value.
Landowners may enter a WAC conservation easement for several reasons
To preserve a legacy. Land remains as-is for generations to come.
To protect the environment and water quality, and/or to preserve the community’s rural character.
To protect the environment and water quality, and/or to preserve the community’s rural character.
Retirement
Establish ownership entity (trust, LLC, etc.)
Transfer farm at an affordable rate to next generation
Expand the farm or purchase additional equipment.
Support multi-family farm incomes
Pay down debt
Property tax savings: DEP pays a portion of the land tax on WAC CEs
Survey & Title work completed at WAC’s expense. Landowner receives copies [added bonus].
WAC’s Conservation Easements (CEs) are working lands easements. Designed to facilitate continued agricultural activities and forestry, within the New York City Watershed – two important elements of the greater Catskill economy. WAC CEs are Paid for Development Rights (“PDR”) easements; the landowner is paid for the value of the rights relinquished, based on the land’s Fair Market Value.