Colorado’s Conservation Easement Tax Credit

Researchers in Colorado found that $595 million investment in conservation easements returned $3.51 billion in public benefits. A return of $6 for every $1 invested. Some of the measurable benefits that result from permanently protected privately owned land include:

  • water supply protection
  • scenic views
  • flood control
  • fish and wildlife habitat
  • recreation (hunting, fishing, hiking, wildlife watching, etc.)
  • aesthetics
  • carbon sequestration
  • dilution of waste water
  • erosion control
  • agricultural crop production.

Related Files

Return on Colorado's Investments in Conservation Easements Report Download