Conservation Opportunities with Distressed Properties

Something good could come out of the economic crisis in this country, in the form of more land saved. With real estate prices declining across the country, this would be a good time to purchase key conservation lands, if we only had the funds. Many banks have foreclosed on distressed properties and need to get those properties off their balance sheets. Some land trusts are seeking charitable gifts to take advantage of this opportunity while others are partnering with private equity funds.

On October 20, the Alliance co-hosted a conference call to share ideas on how land trusts can raise new capital, implement strategies and acquire land from distressed sellers. Here's how you can learn more and stay involved:

• Listen to a recording of the call
• Introduction from Rand Wentworth and prepared comments by invited speakers (mp3, 22MB)
• Q&A session - part 1 (mp3, 14MB)
• Q&A session - part 2 (mp3, 17MB)
• read notes and suggestions from participants (Word,28KB)
• sign up for a listserv to learn more about these issues by sending your name and e-mail address to tleak@lta.org