2025 Session Last amended: 1985 session

§ 84C.01 — Definitions

Plain-Language Summary

This section defines the key terms used in Minnesota's Conservation Easement Act. A conservation easement is a legal agreement where a landowner gives up certain rights to their property to protect natural, scenic, agricultural, or historic values. The 'holder' of an easement must be either a government body or a qualified nonprofit charity with conservation or preservation purposes.

Practical Notes
Conservation easements are a powerful land protection tool used by land trusts and government agencies across Minnesota to preserve farmland, forests, wetlands, and scenic areas permanently. Landowners who donate conservation easements may receive significant federal income tax deductions and potential property tax benefits. Only qualified government bodies and charitable organizations with proper conservation purposes can hold these easements — not private individuals or ordinary businesses.