““My family has lived on and cared for this unique and exceptionally beautiful piece of land for over 50 years, and as a result it has become very special to us. It is rare to find a piece of the parkland ecosystem that has never been cleared or developed in any way. We decided to put a conservation easement on this property because if at some point down the line we had to sell it, we would have the assurance and deep comfort of knowing that it will remain largely as is forever.
We chose the EALT because of their reputation for being ethical, flexible, and trustworthy. Together we created an easement agreement that satisfied both parties and ensured that this special piece of land will be protected in perpetuity.””
What is a Conservation Easement?
A conservation easement is an option when a landowner wants to continue to own their land, sell it, or pass on to heirs. You can think of owning land as a bundle of rights. By registering a conservation easement on title, a landowner gives some of those rights to EALT in order to permanently protect the forests, wetlands, farmlands, or other features. We work with landowners to determine what activities to limit or restrict—these restrictions help conserve the valuable features, all future landowners must abide by the terms of the conservation easement.
The Conservation Easements in Alberta website by the Environmental Law Centre and Miistakis Institute describes conservation easements in more detail here.
EALT Conservation Easements
EALT has several conservation easements in the Edmonton region. We worked with these landowners to determine how best to meet their needs and conserve their property in perpetuity. We maintain regular contact with landowners with registered conservation easements, and monitor the lands each year to ensure their conservation values are upheld. When the lands are sold, the next landowner will follow the conservation easement.
New Jubilee
This property contains one of the largest remaining tracts of old-growth forest within the city of Edmonton and is adjacent to the North Saskatchewan River. The 73 acres of forest provide a refuge and corridor for wildlife. This land also supports a social justice garden and local agriculture through the Lady Flower Gardens and Fern’s Flower Gardens.
Evelyn’s Acres
Tucked away into a bend of the North Saskatchewan River is Evelyn’s Acres, a 140-acre parcel of rich agricultural land and mixedwood forest in northeast Edmonton. This land is managed by Riverbend Gardens, who continue to be a core part of Edmonton’s local food scene, cultivating both community resiliency and a respect for nature.
Larch Sanctuary
This protects a section of the Whitemud Creek ravine within the City of Edmonton. By placing a conservation easement on this parcel of city property, wildlife can find refuge within the city limits and visitors can explore this beautiful place. Different than most conservation easements with EALT, this site is open to the public.
Long Island Lake
This conservation easement in Westlock County will continue to provide a buffer around the lake and a recreational area for nearby residents. The area is stewarded by the Long Island Lake Natural Area Society.
Wabamun Lake
This property in Parkland County conserves 63 acres of forest, tame pasture, and includes shoreline of Wabamun Lake.
Conserving your property
Are you interested in conserving your land? Inquire with our Conservation Manager to take the first step.
