Freshwater Land Trust manages nearly 12,000 acres of land, mak­ing us one of the largest conservers of land in Alabama. With many partners, we have pro­tected more than 13,000 acres since 1996. As an accredited land trust, we monitor our properties annually and lead restoration projects. Our goal is to promote clean water, healthy ecosystems, and natural beauty in all that we do. 

Conservation Services Overview

Every year, we acquire new conservation land in Alabama by: 

When assessing potential land, we consider five conservation priorities: 

  • Water Quality Protection: Does this land reduce erosion, filter rainwater, or otherwise improve water quality in rivers and streams? 
  • Biological Conservation: Does this land contain rare plants or animals? 
  • Recreation Potential: Is this land a good candidate for outdoor recreation? 
  • Important Connections: Will this land connect existing conservation land and create a larger protected area? 
  • Community Priorities: Examples include historical sites, alternative transportation routes, and viewsheds 

Benefits for Landowners

Thousands of people across the nation are partnering with land trusts to protect privately-owned land. Each acre you conserve contributes to a bigger picture: a state and nation ensuring lively communities abundant in clean air, diverse wildlife, healthy ecosystems, and scenic beauty. 

When you choose to conserve your land, you are giving a priceless gift to future generations by letting the places you love live on forever. Additionally, conserved land may qualify as a charitable tax deduction on your federal income tax return. 

Stewardship Funding

As an accredited land trust, Freshwater Land Trust must demonstrate to the Land Trust Alliance that we have the financial resources to monitor conservation easements in perpetuity and maintain all fee properties that we own. To that end, we must secure sufficient stewardship funds for each land conservation project we undertake, as calculated specifically for each property. As you consider conservation options for your property, we also encourage you to consider an additional donation of our needed stewardship endowment – either in whole or in part. Such a donation will reduce our need to fundraise separately to protect your property and will ensure timely completion of the project. 

Legal, Tax, and Financial Advice

The information provided on this site is for informative purposes only. Freshwater Land Trust does not render legal, tax, financial, or other professional services. If you need legal, tax, financial, or other guidance, you should seek the services of experienced professional advisors. 

Next Steps 

Contact us about conserving your land. 

We can answer initial questions and provide more details about the conversation process, including common timelines and associated costs. Every family, property, and conservation project is different. As an accredited land trust, we work with you to find the best option for you, your family, and your land.