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Horse Sports and Conservation PROTECTING OUR FUTURE
Horse Sports and Conservation PROTECTING OUR FUTURE
By Grenville P. Benson
The Piedmont Fox Hounds Conservation Fund (PFHCF) and the Land Trust of Virginia (LTV) recently hosted a forum on the important topic of land conservation at the National Sporting Library and Museum to raise awareness of potential long-term threats. The event brought together landowners, equestrians and supporters as well as others who share an increasing concern for the future of the countryside.
This northern Piedmont region has been known as the epicenter for many equestrian related sports since the 1800s. Many are involved in all categories and levels of horse related activities, from racing, showing, fox chasing and riding cross country. As rolling fields are morphed into cul-de-sacs and McMansions, it’s simple to ask: How could there be any hope?
“The answer is simple--conservation easements” said Dulany Morison, chairman of Piedmont Fox Hounds Conservation Fund (PFHCF). Morison set the stage with a brief history of the conservation movement in the area, celebrating the early leadership of the late Bunny and Paul Mellon, who set the standard for responsible land stewardship. Their legacy, and that of many others, continues to inspire other landowners to protect their properties.
Today, there are over 170,000 acres under easement here in the heart of horse country, with one of the highest concentrations of easements in the U.S. Add to this the aesthetics of riding through open space for all ages and levels of equestrians.
“Riders of every experience level are able to enjoy this breathtaking scene and reap the benefits of riding through natural wilderness,” Morison said. “The landscape is the foundation of our culture, and our rural way of life depends on its preservation.”
He ended his remarks on a positive note, highlighting the many funds available to assist landowners with the upfront and transactional costs of protecting their property with an easement. He also identified several easement holders operating locally, noting that many are equipped to highly customize easements to meet individual landowner needs.
“Financial concerns should no longer prevent a landowner from pursuing an easement here in this countryside,” he concluded. “There is an answer for everyone.”
Since the forum took place LTV Executive Director Ashton Cole has said that while the easement process is fairly involved, it should not deter anyone from moving forward. LTV, as well as other easement holders, have dedicated staff who take the time needed to move at the pace that best suits the landowner, and can provide plenty of advice along the way.
He also highlighted the financial incentives for placing property under conservation easements, pointing out that “state tax credits can be used at full value, or sold for cash at 85-90 cents on the dollar while federal tax credits can be used as a dollar-for-dollar write-off over 15 years.” The value of easement donations, and the associated tax benefits, are substantial in the Piedmont region because of the high value of real estate in the area.
The forum concluded with a review of the impact excessive development has had in the region, including the Fairfax, Loudoun, and Casanova territories, but also its negative impact at the community level. Morison cited the words of the late Paul Mellon from his 1992 book, “Reflections in a Silver Spoon”.
“Trying to restrain the hand of the developer may seem like a losing battle,” he wrote, “but it is one aspect of a struggle that we must continue with if we care at all about the sort of world our children and grandchildren will inherit.”
“Trying to restrain the hand of the developer may seem like a losing battle,” he wrote, “but it is one aspect of a struggle that we must continue with if we care at all about the sort of world our children and grandchildren will inherit.”
“Easements benefit all of us,” Morison said. “There’s a reason this area attracts all walks of life. This is a uniquely special part of the world, surrounded by layers of history, stunning beauty, agriculture, recreation, and, of course, the best foxhunting in the country.”
In response to a question on how to begin the easement process, Morison stated with some resolve, “I am your first call. I will make sure you get connected to the appropriate parties and that you are fully versed on all the options and financial support available.”
