Support Land Conservation in the Southern Tier

The Southern Tier Land Conservancy protects land for future generations. Your financial support makes this work possible.

Why Your Donation Matters

When the STLC accepts a land donation or conservation easement, our commitment to that land is permanent. We monitor every conserved property, maintain boundaries, manage threats like invasive species, and stand ready to defend conservation protections in court if necessary. This work continues year after year, decade after decade.

The STLC is an all-volunteer organization. We have no paid staff. Every dollar you donate goes directly to supporting land conservation in the Southern Tier.

What Your Donation Supports

Liability Insurance

The STLC carries liability insurance that allows necessary access to conserved properties for monitoring, maintenance, and management activities. This coverage protects the organization and enables our volunteers to conduct essential stewardship work.

Property Monitoring

The STLC monitors all conserved properties at least annually. Monitoring involves site visits to document conditions, verify compliance with conservation agreements, and identify potential issues such as boundary encroachments or invasive species. Your donation helps cover the costs associated with this ongoing stewardship obligation.

Legal and Transaction Costs

Accepting a land donation or conservation easement requires legal review, title examination, and preparation of documents that will govern the property's protection in perpetuity. Your donation helps cover these transaction costs, particularly for projects where the landowner has limited financial resources.

Communications

The STLC maintains a website and basic communications to inform the public about our work, connect with potential land donors, and engage supporters. Your donation helps cover these operational expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions About Giving

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The Southern Tier Land Conservancy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. Consult your tax advisor for guidance specific to your situation.

Does my entire donation go to conservation?

The STLC is an all-volunteer organization with no paid staff. All donated funds go directly to supporting our conservation activities, including liability insurance, property monitoring, legal costs, and basic communications.

Can I designate my donation for a specific purpose?

Yes. If you wish to direct your gift toward a particular project or purpose, please contact us to discuss your intentions. We will work with you to honor your wishes where possible.

What is the difference between a general donation and a stewardship endowment contribution?

General donations support the STLC's overall operations and can be used where the need is greatest. Stewardship endowment contributions are funds associated with a specific property that are invested to generate income for the long-term care of that property. The STLC requires a stewardship endowment contribution (calculated as $5,000 plus $75 per acre) when accepting most land donations.

Can I donate appreciated stock or other assets?

Yes. Donating appreciated securities may provide tax advantages, including avoidance of capital gains taxes on the appreciation. Contact the STLC to discuss arrangements for gifts of stock, real estate, or other non-cash assets.

I want to donate land, not money. Where can I find information?

The STLC accepts donations of land and conservation easements from landowners whose properties align with our conservation mission. Please visit our FAQ or contact us to discuss your property and conservation goals.

How can I learn more about the STLC's work?

We welcome opportunities to share information about our conservation projects. Contact us to learn more about the lands we protect and how you can get involved.

How to Give

One-Time Donation

Make a single gift of any amount to support the STLC's conservation mission.

Recurring Donation

Monthly or annual recurring gifts provide reliable support that helps the STLC plan for long-term needs.

Planned Giving

Include the STLC in your estate plans through a bequest in your will or designation as a beneficiary of a retirement account or life insurance policy.

Donor-Advised Funds

Recommend a grant to the STLC from your donor-advised fund.

Contact Us

For questions about giving or to discuss your philanthropic goals, please contact: board@southernTLC.org

The Southern Tier Land Conservancy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Your gift is tax-deductible to the full extent of the law.