What does a conservation easement allow landowners to do?

A conservation easement is a legal agreement that allows landowners to restrict development on their property, thereby preserving its natural, scenic, or historic values. This arrangement typically ensures that the land is maintained in its existing state, promoting conservation efforts for wildlife habitat, open space, and ecological integrity.

By choosing to establish a conservation easement, landowners commit to keeping the land in its natural or historic condition, preventing future owners from altering its use or structure in ways that would compromise those values. This not only benefits the environment but can also enhance the quality of life for the surrounding community.

In contrast, keeping land undeveloped for economic benefit does not capture the essence of a conservation easement, as it is more about preservation than economic gain. Selling portions of land for profit directly contradicts the purpose of conservation easements, which aim to limit development. Lastly, expanding property boundaries would not align with the intention of a conservation easement, which seeks to restrict land use rather than modify property lines. Therefore, the correct answer of maintaining the land in its original state aligns perfectly with the fundamental goals of conservation easements.