Whose Conservation? How Land Trusts Negotiate the Relationship Between Conservation Easement Acquisition Decisions and Growth and Development Interests

摘要

The Western region of the United States has experienced above average population growth rates since at least the 1970s. Much of this growth has been attributed to the great quantity of natural amenities, such as wide open landscapes with scenic mountain views and recreational opportunities. Land trusts and the use of conservation easements have also emerged alongside this growth, as new and prominent forms of conservation. Through these conservation efforts, growth interests are seen to benefit through increased growth and economic development; communities are seen to benefit through increased quality of life; and environmental values are considered protected. However, it is unclear how land trusts negotiate the relationship between conservation easement acquisition decisions and growth and development interests. Using semi-structured interviews and document analysis, I identify five major themes which influence conservation easement acquisition decisions. These themes are further analyzed through four individual conservation easements as case studies. The themes highlighted in this study as influencing acquisition decisions demonstrate a potentially positive outlook for the use of conservation easements in collaborative conservation efforts. However, while multiple interest groups may in fact benefit to some degree, the criteria used to evaluate conservation easement acquisition decisions often intersects with growth and development interests in complex ways which may instead disproportionately benefit particular growth and development interests.