Why are conservation easements important in land use planning?

Conservation easements play a critical role in land use planning by enhancing water resources through the limitation of development. These legal agreements restrict specific land uses to protect the ecological and environmental values of a property. By placing restrictions on the development of certain lands, conservation easements effectively preserve habitats, reduce pollution, and maintain the natural hydrology of an area, which is essential for sustaining water resources.

In California, where water scarcity is a pressing issue, these easements can help protect water quality by mitigating runoff and preserving natural filtration systems, such as wetlands and open spaces. This is particularly important in regions where urbanization can lead to increased runoff, pollution, and stress on water systems. By conserving land in its natural state, these easements help ensure the availability and quality of water resources for both ecosystems and human use.