Stewarding Easements in the Context of Changing Agriculture

Agriculture practices and properties are a changin’! It seems that nowadays landowners want to expand the traditional practice of farming to include solar farms, beer gardens, agritourism, B&Bs and more. Additionally, traditional agricultural properties are being increasingly purchased by wealthy landowners for recreational playgrounds. Balancing uncontemplated uses while avoiding impermissible private benefit and protecting the property’s conservation values can be challenging to say the least. Join stewardship experts Jeb Musser, Lancaster Farmland Trust, and Will Trimbath, The Montana Land Reliance, as they discuss how to effectively steward easements on working lands. Filled with examples and practical tips, this webinar will also leave plenty of time for small group discussion so bring your stories and concerns.

Here's a look at what we’ll cover:

• Strategies for working with non-ag buyers and landowners who may have a different vision for their properties

• A process for managing landowner requests, including those for sideline businesses, that protects the easement’s conservation values, but also takes into consideration landowner needs and changing agricultural market conditions

• Tips for communicating effectively to gain trust and strengthen landowner relationships