There are 1,700 land trusts in America conserving
37 million acres.
By extending protection to over 20,000 acres in 2009 and some 500 more in 2010, the USLT became the fourth largest holder of conservation easements in South Carolina.
The table at right shows the 44 easements for a total of 28,287 acres held by the USLT as of the end of calendar year 2010. Some easements cross county lines.
Land Under Easement Grows Dramatically
No, you continue to own and use your land normally. You only give up certain rights, such as development rights.
FAQs on the Value of Conservation Easements
Upper Savannah Land Trust
Do I give up my ownership when I grant an easement?
Why should I give up these rights?
The easement can become a valuable estate planning tool. Tax reductions can be substantial in Federal, estate, property, and state taxes. Further, an easement assures the landowner's wishes for the property will continue for all time.
Will the public have access to my property if I give an easement?
Generally, no. Details will be worked out in your easement document.
How do I know if my property qualifies?
Get in touch with a non-profit land trust organization like the Upper Savannah Land Trust for an evaluation of your property.
| County |
# Easements |
Acres Conserved |
| Abbeville |
1
|
138
|
| Aiken * |
1
|
342
|
| Anderson |
2
|
800
|
| Edgefield |
4
|
3,292
|
| Greenwood |
16
|
7,572
|
| Laurens |
6
|
2,373
|
| McCormick |
4
|
11,963
|
| Newberry |
7
|
1,317
|
| Saluda |
5
|
490
|
* Indicates easement held out of service area.