Myths
This section addresses some of the most common rumors and myths about land conservation. If you have additional concerns, contact a legal or tax professional, conservation group or other resource.
Myth 1: Protecting my land means I’ll have to open it to the public.
Some conservation options involve public ownership and use. Others—like conservation easements, mutual covenants or private preserve dedications—let you retain private ownership and private access/use.
Still other conservation options—such as bequests or donations with reserved life estate—let you enjoy the rights of private ownership and use throughout your life. Full ownership doesn’t transfer to your chosen beneficiaries until after your death—or until after the deaths of additional family members you designate.
Myth 2: Conservation blocks eminent domain.
Conservation groups occasionally get desperate requests to implement protection options in order to block plans for a public road, man-made lake or similar project.
Protecting your land as a private or even public conservation area does not automatically block eminent domain. However, if you can show that your land has significant and unusual features—such as rare species or archeological remnants—you may be able to stop or mitigate the proposed takings. Conservation groups can offer advice on this process.
Myth 3: Conservation & agriculture can’t co-exist.
Iowa conservationists know that most farmers care about maintaining their land’s health and resources. We regularly meet Iowans whose land stewardship far exceeds environmental regulations and even some professional efforts.
Similarly, most Iowa farmers know that good conservation is also good for their bottom line. Careful erosion control can protect crop yields, the family fishing hole and the downstream water supply. Maintaining patches of wildlife habitat can provide a natural supplement to insect and rodent control, extra income from visiting hunters and a resting place for migrating birds. A conservation easement can make land more affordable for the next generation to keep farming.
Thus, Iowa conservation projects preserve not just natural landscapes but also farms and ranches, not just endangered species but also the endangered rural lifestyle and ethic that formed our state’s identity.
Myth 4: All conservation groups are alike.
Iowa has dozens of conservation groups—large and small, public and private, generalists and specialists.
This variety can be confusing, but it can work to your advantage. While some conservation groups have no interest in purchasing your flood-prone fields, others seek this kind of low-lying ground to restore wetlands, buffer adjoining public land or maintain rural scenery. If state agencies don’t think your land is suitable for a state park, your county conservation board might be thrilled to protect it as a wildlife area.
Conservation groups are also able to form temporary partnerships to complete specific land protection projects. For example, when landowners want conservation but need a quick sale, the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation can provide temporary ownership while public conservation groups raise acquisition funds. These funds may come from still other conservation groups, such as Pheasants Forever, Ducks Unlimited, National Wild Turkey Federation, Audubon, Iowa Prairie Network, and the Sierra Club. Their dollars can supplement government grant programs like Wildlife Habitat Stamp or REAP (Resource Enhancement and Protection).
Myth 5: I can’t afford conservation.
Few Iowans can afford a 100% donation, but that’s only one of many conservation options described in this booklet. While conservation may require financial sacrifice, tax savings can substantially reduce your true costs.
Still not sure? Try conducting this reality check on the balance between your financial, emotional and spiritual needs: How would you feel if your land were purchased by someone who strips away its natural resources and character?
For many Iowans, the next question is “Can I afford not to protect my land?”
reprinted from Landowner’s Options, © 2007, Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation
