Benefits of Conserving Your Farmland
1. Peace of Mind
When you conserve your land, you gain confidence that it will always remain available for farming. No matter how the land is transferred in the future, its use for agriculture is protected. That assurance allows you to plan with certainty, knowing your farm will continue to contribute to Connecticut’s agricultural future.
2. Family Legacy
Conservation lets you honor those who came before you — the generations who cleared, cultivated, and cared for the land. By conserving your farmland, you also create a legacy for the generations that follow. Your decision helps ensure that your family’s hard work and values will continue through the land itself.
3. Respecting the Land
Conserving farmland is an act of care. It reflects a commitment to healthy soils, clean water, and a strong local farm community. Families who conserve their land are demonstrating values of stewardship and responsibility, ensuring that the land continues to sustain people and agriculture.
4. Access for a New Generation of Farmers
Conserved farmland is often more affordable for farmers because its value reflects its use for agriculture rather than development pressure. This makes it easier for beginning farmers and the next generation to purchase land and continue Connecticut’s farming tradition.
5. Financial Benefits
Conserving farmland can also include financial advantages that farmers and landowners tap into for on-farm improvements, retirement strategies, or long-term planning:
Federal Income Tax Benefits
Donating a conservation easement often qualifies as a charitable contribution. Farmers who meet IRS definitions may deduct up to 100 percent of adjusted gross income, with carry-forward provisions, while non-farmers may deduct up to 50 percent. See our Tax Law page for greater details »
Estate Planning Advantages
Conservation easements can reduce the taxable value of land, lowering estate tax obligations. In some cases, it may reduce your exposure to estate taxes. See Ways to Give »
Planned Gifts
Donating farmland or a conservation easement through your will can provide significant tax benefits. These gifts may reduce or eliminate long-term capital gains taxes, while also lowering estate tax liability.
Planned gifts ensure your land remains available for agriculture while providing financial advantages for your heirs or, if you so choose, additional conservation initiatives through Connecticut Farmland Trust. See Ways to Give »
