FAQs
What is a Land Trust? A land trust is a private, non-profit entity that acquires and manages conservation land for the public’s benefit.
Is RLT the same as, or part of, the Conservation Commission? No. Although we often work closely with ConCom, we are entirely separate from all town government.
How about these other Land Trusts in town I see, read, or hear about? Yes, there are a lot of players, and unfortunately it does get confusing. The Wildlands Trust (https://wildlandstrust.org) is a regional land trust based out of Plymouth that was most active before we were founded in 1997. The Trustees of Reservations (https://thetrustees.org) operates state-wide and seeks large, truly exceptional properties, which is why they led and manage the East Over Reservation. And the Buzzards Bay Coalition (https://www.savebuzzardsbay.org) continues to be very active in town, especially with land with water resources that drain directly into the Bay. All of these organizations have been great partners of ours.
What is a CR? CR is an acronym for “Conservation Restriction”. A CR is an easement held by either a land trust or public entity that permanently prohibits the residential or commercial development of property owned by another. RLT holds many CR’s on land owned by both the town and private individuals.
Do CR’s allow public access? It’s entirely up to the owner. Most CR’s remain as private as they were before they were placed. However, the owner must allow the CR holder to enter the property at least once per year to assure that the CR agreement is being upheld.
What if a land with a CR is sold? The CR is permanent and all restrictions remain.
How is a CR different from Chapter 61? Chapter 61, 61A, and 61B are Massachusetts current-use programs that significantly lower property taxes on forestry, agricultural, or recreational lands. A CR is forever, whereas Chapter 61 runs in 10-year increments. Because a CR does not necessarily lower property taxes, many properties with CR’s are also under Chapter 61.
Will you buy my land or must I donate it? While we always of course prefer donations, most land that we acquire is purchased. Land that is purchased for less than its appraised market value is called a “bargain sale”.
How can you afford to buy land? It’s not easy, but most land projects have both a private and public funding component. State and federal grants generally provide the bulk of our funding, but private donations are absolutely critical to most projects.
Can I donate or place a CR on any land I wish? Not necessarily. While we welcome donations or CR’s on land with significant conservation value, we will not automatically accept any piece of land that is given to us. Please talk to us if you are considering conserving your land.
Do I get a tax deduction if I donate land? Typically yes, if what you are donating has monetary value. Some land donations may also be eligible for a state tax credit. Donated CR’s qualify for a deduction or credit by the amount that the placing of the CR devalues the residual value of your land. Bargain sales also qualify by the amount which the sales price is less than the property’s appraised value. The rules are generous but complicated. Talk to us, and eventually make sure you consult with your accountant or lawyer.
Does RLT allow hunting on its lands? It depends. If the property is not suitable for hunting due to its proximity to homes, or if it is donated to us by someone who wishes to not allow hunting, it is prohibited. Most properties will have signage to indicate whether hunting is allowed.
If I donate land where I would like to allow hunting, how can I be assured that RLT won’t eventually outlaw it? We will gladly sign deeds and other agreements that expressly allow hunting on a piece of donated land. That said, we can’t override any government rules that prohibit it.
Does RLT allow ATV’s, dirt bikes, or snowmobiles? No. Land that allows recreational motor vehicles is not considered conservation land because these uses can significantly impair its natural features. Also, most grants that fund our acquisitions prohibit recreational motor vehicles. However, motor vehicles are permitted for authorized property maintenance, forestry, or farming. All land with CR’s also prohibit recreational motor vehicles.
How about mountain bikes? Mountain bikes are allowed, but please be careful and give way to people on foot.
Dogs? Dogs are allowed but must be either on a leash or under the owner’s complete control at all times. Please either pick up their waste or place in the woods out of sight. Please do not leave plastic dog waste bags on the property.
How can I help? Aside from donations, we always need volunteers. If you walk our properties, please pick up any trash you may see, and let us know if you encounter downed trees, fallen signs, or prohibited vehicles.