The AVPLT is directed by a Board of Directors made up of local citizens who volunteer their time, talent and energy to make Otero County and the Lower Arkansas Valley a better place to live and work. The Directors use the skills and expertise of numerous advisors from a variety of fields ranging from agriculture, forestry, law, business, environmental, education, public service and the arts. All share a common commitment to the quality of life and continued economic diversity of our community.

Inquiries and discussion with the Land Trust are strictly confidential and without obligation. The Trust serves landowners who want to protect the special features of their lands through voluntary private action such as conservation easements. The easement sets forth certain permitted uses and restrictions on the land as agreed upon by the landowner and the Land Trust. The landowner retains ownership of the property and the ability to transfer that ownership at any time. There is no need to grant right of public use or access to the property. The easement is monitored regularly by the Land Trust to assure conditions are being upheld.

In addition to the satisfaction of protecting land through easements or donations, there may be federal income tax and estate tax deductions. The State of Colorado offers a tax credit for qualifying easements. In some cases, there may be property tax reductions.

The trust provides property owners with information on preservation techniques available to them, and on tax benefits, which might be available from donations of land or through easements.