Land Values Assessment Checklist

The following checklist outlines the preliminary criteria used by The Palmer Land Trust when initially deciding whether to participate in a property transaction or conservation easement negotiation. These considerations, however, neither insure nor limit the Land Trust's involvement. The Board of Trustees retains discretion over the acquisition process, and it may choose to deviate from these guidelines after careful review of a specific proposal.

ENHANCING VALUES

1. Expands and enhances existing or proposed public domain holdings
2. Links significant public and/or private open space/natural areas
3. Preserves or buffers natural areas containing:
   • plant/animal species of unusual merit or special concern
   • representative local plant and animal communities
   • valuable wildlife habitat
   • wetlands
   • migration corridors
4. Contains important historical, geological, archeological or local landmark features
5. Protects scenic vistas or view corridors
6. Permits existing agricultural practices to continue on land that would otherwise succumb to development pressures
7. Provides needed urban open space or sets a precedent for open space values and protection in a developing area
8. Offers educational opportunities to the public
9. Does not exceed or adversely affect the financial and land management capabilities of the Palmer Land Trust
10. Concurrent gift to The Palmer Land Trust Easement Stewardship Fund

LIMITING FACTORS

1. Few conservation/natural resource values remain intact on the property
2. The presence of noxious weeds, hazardous materials, contaminants or refuse requiring containment, control or disposal
3. Small size and conflicting adjacent land use
4. Future development of adjacent properties which would diminish existing conservation values
5. Difficult enforcement or management issues:
   • physiographic dangers
   • destructive trespass pressures
   • multiple ownership tangles
   • restrictive deed provisions
   • potentially burdensome maintenance issues
6. Distance from Colorado Springs
7. Ethical or public image problems for the Land Trust associated with accepting the property