News : Permanent Conservation Easement Protects 50 Acres of Wildlife Habitat

Benton County Conservation is pleased to announce the completion of a conservation

easement that will permanently protect approximately 50 acres of high-quality wildlife habitat in Benton County. Through this agreement, the land will remain under private ownership while ensuring the property’s natural resources and wildlife habitat are protected for generations to come.

A conservation easement is a voluntary legal agreement between a landowner and a

conservation organization that limits certain types of development while allowing continued

private ownership and traditional uses such as agriculture, forestry, and recreation. More

information about conservation easements and their benefits can be found on the Iowa Natural

Heritage Foundation (INHF) website.

According to landowner Steve Meyer,

“My major reason for doing this is preservation. Wherever I go it seems that every spot of woodlands I see is disturbed by development of some kind. As our woodlands vanish, so do our songbirds and our pollinators and native plants. Accompanying the loss of our native plants and animals is a reduction in our quality of life. By taking this action I hope to protect what small part of our landscape that I control and preserve it in its natural state for future generations to enjoy. I also hope that by taking this action I might inspire others to do the same. It’s become obvious to me that we cannot rely upon the government to protect our natural resources to the degree needed so in my view it’s up to the individual property owner to make the difference.

”The property owners have been dedicated stewards of their land for years, maintaining a

diverse landscape that supports local wildlife and contributes to the county’s natural heritage.

This conservation easement represents a lasting commitment to protecting the health of Benton

County’s ecosystems, open spaces, and rural character.

“We are excited to help create this conservation easement with the vision that Steve Meyer has

provided for his property” said Randy Scheel, Benton County Conservation Board Member.

“Since acquiring the land years ago, Steve has meticulously taken great care to remove all

invasive vegetation while focusing on replacing it with native trees and plants. This land is the

perfect example of the type of ground that needs to be protected for generations to follow.

”For landowners interested in exploring conservation options, whether that’s protecting their property in perpetuity or discussing long-term land management strategies, Benton County Conservation is here to help. Staff can provide information and connect landowners with

programs and partners, including INHF, to find the right fit for their goals.

To discuss potential conservation easements or future management ideas, contact Benton

County Conservation at 319-472-4942 or visit https://www.bentoncountyia.gov/conservation/ or visit https://www.iowalandoptions.org/protection-options/private-ownership-options/conservation-easement