Powering Up Conservation: A Guide for Colorado’s Land Trust Community Considering Solar Development in Conservation Easements
Source
About This Report / White Paper
Powering Up Conservation is a comprehensive guide developed by Colorado Open Lands to help land trusts evaluate whether and how solar development can be compatible with conservation easements. The report explains the range of solar technologies and scales, outlines state and federal legal considerations, and examines how traditional and dual‑use solar can affect wildlife habitat, scenic values, agriculture and water rights. It provides a decision framework for reviewing solar proposals on new or existing easements and offers guidance for drafting easement language, developing organizational policies and navigating public perception. The report also includes a case study from the San Luis Valley, where declining aquifers and shifting agricultural conditions create opportunities to integrate solar with conservation goals.
Disclaimer
These resources are provided "as is" for informational purposes only, without warranty of any kind. They do not constitute legal or professional advice and do not create an attorney-client relationship. They may not reflect current legal developments and should be adapted for your organization with qualified professional help. The Alliance is not liable for any damages arising from use of or reliance on these resources. Views in individual posts and third-party links/logos are not Alliance endorsements. The Alliance is committed to equal opportunity and does not condone unlawful discrimination.
For accreditation-related materials, please also consult the Land Trust Accreditation Commission website.