In the heart of our local Tug Hill region lies a hidden gem – what is often referred to as the Core Forest. A region of wide scale importance for its wildlife habitat and long-term forest integrity, the Core Forest is seen as one of New York State’s vibrant working landscapes.
John Constable, a steadfast steward of the land, has been the guardian of his own corner of this forested haven for decades. His love for the towering trees, abundant wildlife, and clean, clear streams also mirrors the importance of preserving these forests, with their older trees, in combating climate change.
As climate goals become increasingly urgent, partnerships with individuals like John play a pivotal role.
John conserved his property with a voluntary conservation easement agreement years ago — long before the new forest conservation easement program. The results continue to be an inspiration as John emphasizes the value of these agreements in safeguarding the core forest and the resources it holds.
“I hope others will consider protecting their lands with the help of partnerships with the land trust and grants with the land trust, or donating a conservation easement and receiving the income tax benefits,” explains John, when asked about his land protection leadership, “I continue to own and manage my land and can conduct forestry activities that respect the conservation goals that
I established with the land trust.”
According to the 2020 New York State Forest Action Plan, “Privately owned forestlands cover 13.52 million acres and represent 74% of New York’s forests. 10.2 million acres are considered family-owned or non-corporate forests. Nearly 700,000 private forest landowners provide the public with the benefits of clean air and water, carbon sequestration, wildlife habitat, and a forest-based economy.”
Property tax credit
Given the importance of land conservation as part of the overall economic vitality of NYS and areas like Tug Hill, New York State also provides a property tax credit for lands conserved with conservation easements.
The Conservation Easement Tax Credit (CETC) offers New York State taxpayers an annual income tax credit of 25% on their school district, county, and town property taxes up to $5,000. If a landowner’s tax credit exceeds the amount he or she owes in state income taxes, the landowner receives a payment for the difference.
Is the Forest Conservation Easement Program right for you?
If you are interested in learning more about the new Forest Conservation Easement Program for Land Trusts please refer to the Land Trust Alliance’s New York State page on its website. You can also talk to land trust staff about the income tax benefits of donating a conservation easement. Over 115 families have conserved their land with our land trust, including forest lands, farms, wetlands, and stream corridors.