Agenda - 02-01-1988 - Laserfiche WebLink

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For an area to be eligible for registration, it must possess significant CONSIDERING THE C14010ES natural values such as an exemplary natural community habitat type, en- dangered or rare species of plant or animal, outstanding geologic feature, --A significant wildlife habitat, or other unique ecological resource or excep- tional natural conditions.Additionally,a site is evaluated on its educational Many of the hardest questions that will affect the landowner's final deciyl�� and research oppr>rumities, diversity of flora and Fauna, the duality and Sion must be answered by the owner alone—questions such as whether to viability of the natural features,absence of damaging land uses and extent of give up the development potential of the land and how important continued alteration from past disturbances, its capacity for being maintained in ownership of the land is to the owner and one's family. A landowner can help ensure a proper decision by obtaining professional advice. natural condition, and capability to protect the area. A landowner who is seriously considering protecting a property through An area is entered on the registry only after the owner or managing agen- cy voluntary agrees to have it recognized as a protected rmtural area and signs with of any of the legal techniques described should discuss the alternatives a conservation pledge. Owners are given written descriptions and manage- with an attorney who is familiar with land conservation law and the tax meet recommendations for their natural areas. Owners are awarded framed implications of complex,conservation measures. Although the final legal transaction certificates in recognition of their conEferntion.The Natural Heritage Program may not he complex, a landowner needs to be sure that the alternative chosen is legally sound, that the legal instrument used will he able to fully maintains frequent communication with owners of registered areas and con- ducts an annual nros,itoring review. Owners of registered areas do not as yet accomplish the goal, and that the action will be wise from a tax planning receive any tax incentives for voluntarily assuring Vicar protection. perspective. Also a landowner may wish to consult a real estate appraiser to deter- mine the approximate effect of the proposed measure on the value of the property or the value of the gift that will be donated. Only if a landowner has a realistic idea of the financial impact of the conservation measure can one determine whether he or she can afford to take the step and to what extent any tax benefits will counter the loss in value. The services of an accountant may be required to help with these determinations if the land- owner's financial situation is complex. Should a landowner consider the conservation alternatives and decide not to take action now,the subject need not be closed. Circumstances and thoughts may change with the passage of time, and actions may later become appropriate. Landowners should choose the conservation method most appropriate for them after considering their individual financial and personal needs and their desires for the land.The range of options is wide enough to allow most landowners to find a suitable solution.The presence of committed conserva• tion organizations with similar objectives will enable North Carolina land- owners to achieve their goals. l' r 24 25