A conservation easement is a permanent agreement that limits how your land can be developed, often in exchange for payment or tax benefits. It can protect your farm for generations, but it is not a quick fix and it is not for everyone. Work through these five questions before you contact a land trust. 

DISCLAIMER: The easement process typically takes six months to two years from first conversation to closing, prompting an important question: how do you currently approach planning for the long-term stability of your farm? If you need cash this season, an easement will not provide immediate relief. Farmers in financial crisis often pursue easements for fast relief, only to realize it doesn’t provide the relief they expected. A conservation easement can protect a farm for generations, but it is not a quick fix and it is not for everyone. Plan early, while there is still time to carefully consider whether it fits your long-term goals.