Anyone have any experience with securing Conservation easements, specifically in the upstate NY Catskill watershed area? Working on a parcel and I'm wondering if anyone can give me some anecdotes about their journey.
Investor · Pacific Northwest · Member since 2026 · 512 posts · 292 votes
2w
The biggest thing I’d do before chasing the easement is define exactly what you want the parcel to still be able to do afterward.
In the Catskills, the value can depend heavily on the specific conservation terms, watershed restrictions, development rights being surrendered, appraisal methodology, and which land trust/public entity is involved. I’d treat it almost like underwriting a deal: title + current rights, highest/best use, proposed restrictions, appraisal impact, then the tax/economic consequences.
If you want, connect with me and send me the parcel details and what you’re trying to accomplish with it. I’m happy to look at the whole situation and tell you where I’d start.
Attorney · 10451 Mill Run Cir #755 Owings Mills, MD 21117 · Member since 2024 · 312 posts · 118 votes
2w
@Tacuma Bradley, one thing I would look at very carefully is what this decision means for the property long after the easement is signed. In my real estate and estate planning work, I’ve learned that owners sometimes focus on what they gain today, but not enough on what a permanent restriction could mean later for a sale, financing, inheritance, or a future owner who may want to use the land differently.
Before signing anything, I would want a very clear picture of what rights you are giving up, what rights you are keeping, who will enforce the easement, and what obligations continue with the land. I would also think about how the property fits into your long-term estate plan if you expect to keep it in the family.. I’d be glad to stay connected and see where you go with the parcel. I’m licensed in Maryland, so for anything specific to New York or the Catskill watershed, I would definitely have New York counsel who handles conservation and land-use matters review it.