Thinking about conserving your land?
Now's the time.

Urban sprawl overtakes two acres of productive agricultural land every minute.

But, as a qualified farmer or rancher, you can set up a voluntary easement  that conserves your land for active production - as you continue to own and work it...or even if you sell it or pass it on to heirs.

Right now, you can get an enhanced tax deduction - up to 100 percent of your income for 16 years - for a new Conservation Easement.

The enhanced tax incentive expires at the end of 2007, however.  Help save the future of your land, your community and America's natural resources.  Consult your tax or estate planning adviser or call us at 256-534-5263.

Farmers and ranchers earn their tax deductions by selling or donating their easements to a local land trust, while retaining ownership of the land and the right to continue to operate it as a farm or ranch.

The Land Trust of Huntsville & North Alabama is a nonprofit organization that, as part of its mission, actively works to conserve land by undertaking or assisting in land or Conservation Easement acquisition, or by its stewardship of such land or easements.

- - - - - - - - - - - -

A voluntary Conservation Easement often helps reduce both your income and estate taxes. 

Example:
A landowner earning $50,000 per year who donates a $1 million conservation easement could deduct:

Prior to 2007...$15,000 x 6 years = $90,000 (30% for all landowners)

Currently in 2007...$25,000 x 16 years = $400,000 (for a regular landowner) or $50,000 x 16 years = $800,000 (100% for a farmer or rancher)*

*Note: to qualify for a Conservation Easement, you must show that your land preserves open space, such as farm or ranch land; protects wildlife; or fulfills some other conservation purpose.