What Is a Conservation Easement? Kerry Schultz with the Green River Valley Jackson Hole Land Trust Explains

In this episode of the Wild Things & Wild Places podcast, hosts Joy Faigl, Janet Crofts, and Chris Steffen sit down with Kerry Schultz, Program Director of the Green River Valley Jackson Hole Land Trust. Kerry breaks down the concept of conservation easements, which are legal agreements between private landowners and a qualified entity such as a land trust to permanently protect the land from development. She explains how these agreements play a vital role in conservation, particularly on private lands that are essential for wildlife habitats and migration corridors. The conversation dives into examples of easements in Wyoming, the process and challenges of putting them in place, and the financial side of things, including funding sources and potential tax benefits for landowners. Kerry and the hosts also highlight how conservation easements not only safeguard landscapes but also provide lasting benefits to ecosystems and communities alike. You won't believe how much time will pass just listening to this conversation on conservation easements — it's that engaging!  The episode wraps up with some personal hunting plans and a look ahead at upcoming Muley Fanatic Foundation events, tying together the importance of conservation with the culture and lifestyle of those who cherish the outdoors.