To Ease or Not to Ease: Interest in Conservation Easements Among Landowners in Brown County, Indiana

Clearly understanding the connections among land use, demographics, and sensitivity and engagement with natural areas can provide insight into landowner decision making. Pertinent findings from our mailed survey of landowners in Brown County, Indiana, include that (1) individuals already engaged in land conservation or environmental activities are most likely to consider a conservation easement (CE), (2) hunters and anglers are less likely to have interest in CEs, and (3) few differences exist between seasonal and permanent residents. Among other things, this research highlights the significance for landowner willingness to grant a CE of involving landowners in conservation activities and environmental organizations.