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Why Should I Conserve Land?
If you are seeking to protect and steward your natural lands, you can use conservation tools to
- protect key habitat parcels on your land important to fish and wildlife,
- conserve open space,
- support your farming and forestry management practices,
- retain ownership of your land,
- reap financial benefits such as income, estate, and property tax reductions, and
- receive income through conservation payments or easement purchases.
Conservation tools can help you to conserve a legacy, such as a unique natural feature, farming or forestry traditions, or a place to live for current and future family members.
Natural lands benefit both wildlife and people. Examples of functions and values include: Forests and Native Plants (in upland, shoreline, and wetland areas):
- Store water and reduce flooding
- Filter sediments and pollutants
- Replenish aquifers and streams
- Stabilize soils and stream channels
- Provide food and shelter for fish/wildlife
Nearshore areas between shoreline and open sea:
- Harbor nutrient-rich nurseries (spawning, rearing, and feeding ground for numerous species)
Working farms, forests, and fisheries:
- Local sources of food and fiber
- Economic benefits (jobs and income)
Open Space:
- Recreation, hunting, fishing, hiking
Photo information: Klingel Wetland Refuge, Mason County, by Joanne Tejeda.
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