A conservation easement is a flexible tool that protects land with important conservation values while leaving it in private ownership. More than 30,000 acres in Massachusetts, and 1.5 million acres of land across the United States, have been protected through the use of conservation easements.

A conservation easement is a legally-binding agreement between a landowner and either a nonprofit organization (usually a land trust) or a government agency. The easement limits future uses of the property. These restrictions are tailored to meet the needs of the landowner, the organization holding the easement, and the land's resources. Public access is usually not required but can be allowed.

The easement is permanent and is recorded with the property deed. Land can be sold or passed on to heirs, but the restrictions remain in perpetuity.

In a conservation real estate transaction involving a conservation easement, the land trust will work with the seller and/or the buyer to draft a conservation easement appropriate for the property, and explain how the provisions will apply.

In Massachusetts, conservation easements are referred to as 'conservation restrictions'. They are recognized under state law, providing additional protection, and are reviewed to ensure they provide public benefit according to the provisions of the Massachusetts Conservation Restriction Act. The land trust assists in drafting and submitting the conservation restriction for this approval.