Conservation Preserves

Preserves are properties held directly by ORLT for long term protection and management. Preserves usually have limited uses other than protecting and managing the natural features on the land. Preserves have often been donated by landowners who want their land to be protected due to very special or unusual natural features that deserve careful management. Lands which they wish to sell or leave to their heirs can be protected with conservation easements.

ORLT has purchased some properties that include rare and endangered species or natural features, which we manage as preserves. Since our funds are limited we’ve had the help of conservation lenders or community land trust partners to complete the purchases when donors are not involved. Our internal Conservation Loan Fund has helped make acquisitions possible and enabled our supporters to be a part of a conservation purchase by providing a low interest loan.

A current listing of our completed Conservation Preserve projects are described below. Many more projects are in development.