Conservation Easement

The Tinicum Conservancy helps conserve the natural beauty and diversity of Tinicum Township by protecting significant private land and scenic areas. During the past two decades, we have worked to preserve almost 100 properties and 4,000 acres of land. This is a remarkable achievement in Bucks County, as well as the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Are you considering an easement? Five things you should know.

During the summer of 2009, the Tinicum Conservancy was recognized by the National Land Trust Accreditation Commission for its conservation efforts and was awarded national accreditation, one of only 5 percent of land trust nationwide to receive this honor. The Accreditation seal means that the Conservancy meets national quality standards for land preservation. The award came after a rigorous, 18 month application review process that looked closely at how the Conservancy runs its programs and operations.

Are you considering the purchase of an already conserved property?

Six things your realtor and legal counsel should know.

The Tinicum Conservancy is able to preserve the most outstanding land in our area in perpetuity by using a land protection tool called a Conservation Easement. A conservation easement is an excellent tool for permanently protecting your land while retaining ownership. The easement is a legally-binding agreement between a landowner and a qualified conservation organization such as the Tinicum Conservancy. The easement permanently limits a property’s use and binds all present and future owners of the land.

A conservation easement reduces the market value of the land because the owner gives up the potential for full development. Easements are most often donated by the landowner and the donation may result in a charitable deduction for federal income tax purposes. The conservation easement may also reduce estate taxes because the land will be valued at less than fair market value upon the owner’s death and, depending on local laws, lower property taxes. Indeed, without these reductions in estate and property taxes, the landowner’s heirs may not be able to afford to keep the land in the family. Please speak to your personal advisors before engaging in any conservation transaction.

To speak with the Tinicum Conservancy about protecting your land, please contact us at 610-294-1077.