The objectives of the Sharon Land Trust Strategic Plan outline the criteria for parcels which warrant protection. All land under our protection will be preserved in perpetuity, unless it is given as ‘asset land’ to be sold for purchase of another parcel.
There are three methods for acquiring land:
Gifts: These are outright gifts of all or part of a parcel to the Land Trust. The gift results in a tax deduction to the donor based on the land’s highest and best use. This means that if the land can be subdivided, the deduction is based on the subdivided value of the land. The donor can also determine how the land will be managed by the Land Trust.
Conservation Easements: A permanent restriction from developing a parcel or part of a parcel of land. Conservation easements are primarily gifts from land owners, but in rare cases the Sharon Land Trustwill assist in the purchase of conservation easements. The land continues to be owned by the donor. The terms of the easement vary with the type of land and the desires of the owner. There is no public access to the land unless the owner specifically requests it. Land is valued at its highest and best use and results in major tax deductions that can be taken over a period of years.
Purchase: Only parcels which pass our most rigorous screens are considered. Price must be at or below appraised valuations. When possible, a building lot is carved out to help with the purchase price and prevent town tax revenue loss. Most major purchases are acquired with the help of federal and/or state grants.
