Williamsburg Land Conservancy in Virginia
Preserve Land for Tax Benefits, Income, Community Character
Jul 20, 2008
The Historic Triangle region of Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown, Virginia, sees the benefits of a land conservancy. The Williamsburg Land Conservancy encourages conservation easements and the surrounding counties purchase development rights.
What is a Land Trust?
Caren Schmacher, executive director of the Williamsburg Land Conservancy explains that when a landowner wants to preserve his land for generations to come he can place it under a conservation easement and reap tax benefits. He can still farm his land and walk on it, but an organization like the Williamsburg Land Conservancy will become the steward to ensure that the natural resources shade the soil, clean the air, and protect water quality perpetually.
Why and How to Preserve Historic Triangle Land
“The Historic Triangle [of Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown, Virginia] is a really special place and we really have to make sure that the character and ambiance of this community is kept in tack … forever. It is the essence of who we are,” said Caren.
The Virginia Conservation Easement Act provides a tax incentive for local landowners to preserve land in the area. However, the decision to place land under permanent easement is a very large one due to economic and emotional considerations.
The Conservancy points some individuals toward the Purchase of Development Rights program, which is a tool for protecting land in James City and several other Virginia counties. “Through the voluntary Purchase of Development Rights program, the county purchases development rights and owners get cash out of it.” The Conservancy worked with the Board of Supervisors to put a bond referendum on the ballot recently. It provided $15 million for the Purchase of Development Rights and $5 for the preservation of green space.
Because the options for protecting land are varied and somewhat complicated, the Conservancy hosts “Conservation Conversations” to educate landowners about options. They can bring their financial and legal advisors, since the Conservancy does not supply that level of counsel. “Every one of our deeds is a unique agreement between the land trust and the owner.” Each considers the use of the land by the owners with some allowing agriculture and others allowing walking trails for public enjoyment.
Helping Preserve Williamsburg Area Land is Rewarding Business
Caren feels that her work with the Conservancy is the most meaningful job she has held. “It’s also the most challenging,” she said. “I think I have the best job in Williamsburg, but it’s a big job: working with land owners, local government, trying to make a difference. No two days ever look the same. I feel like there is so much to do.”
How can we be more respectful of the area? “If we grow in the wrong places, it’s gone forever,” she said. The Land Conservancy contributes to the James City County Comprehensive Planning Process to advocate for stronger language in ordinances to ensure that growth doesn’t move out of bounds. “We need to take responsibility for the land around us. We are a community that is reliant upon tourism. If we begin to look like any town, no one will want to come back.”
“I am passionate about what I do and the things I work on for the community good,” she said. “My job is not only my vocation, it’s an avocation. I believe in helping to maintain the character of this community personally and professionally.”
Director Gives Preservation Message
Caren believes we can all contribute to preserving the environment. “There is certainly something that everyone can do, something that everyone should do. If you’re not recycling, start recycling. Buy a cloth bag for your groceries … and remember to carry it in the store! Use less water on your lawn. Plant more native plants."
"Speaking for the Land Conservancy, though, I can say that not everyone has a parcel of land to permanently protect but if you care about land, support your local land trust that is working with the landowners to protect land. And support other environmental organizations either as a volunteer or with a financial commitment. That’s a start. Support the organization with your time and your money. They’re both equally important.”
Portions of this article originally appeared in Next Door Neighbor magazine.
 |
