--- title: Working Lands & Conservation | Unique Places to Save description: Discover how working lands conservation balances economic productivity with environmental sustainability, ensuring long-term ecological health & community well-being image: https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/working%20lands%20conservation%20easement.jpg --- [![Unique Places to Save logo](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hs-fs/hubfs/logo%20horizontal-1.png?width=1254&height=380&name=logo%20horizontal-1.png "Unique Places to Save logo")](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/) - [PROJECTS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/projects) - SERVICES - [FOR MITIGATION BANKERS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/conservation-mitigation) - [FOR LAND MANAGERS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/land-planners-managers) - [FOR LANDOWNERS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/conservation-for-landowners) - [FOR RESTORATION PARTNERS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/dam-removals) - ABOUT - [OUR GOALS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/our-goals) - [OUR VALUES](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/our-values) - [OUR TEAM](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/team) - [CONTACT US](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/contact) - UPDATES - [CONSERVATION EASEMENTS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/conservation-easements) - [MITIGATION BANKING](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/mitigation-banking) - [WORKING LANDS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/working-lands) - [RIVERS, WETLANDS & DAMS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/rivers-wetlands-dams) - [CONSERVATION & DEVELOPMENT](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/conservation-and-development) - [CONSERVATION STORIES](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/conservation-stories) - [ORGANIZATION NEWS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/organization-news) - [ALL POSTS](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news) [Donate](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/wetland-keepers) [Donate](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/wetland-keepers) This is a search field with an auto-suggest feature attached. - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. ![An aerial view of a green field marked with curving tramlines.](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/working%20lands%20conservation%20easement.jpg) # Working Lands & Conservation Michael Scisco - October 2024 ![](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/raw_assets/public/unique-places-theme/images/sep-1-0.png) Working lands conservation is a practice aimed at conserving natural resources and biodiversity while also sustaining productive agricultural or forestry activities and operations. It involves integrating [conservation easements](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/conservation-easement-introduction) into working landscapes such as farms, ranches, and forests to help preserve both economic and environmental benefits. This approach recognizes the importance of preserving [ecosystem services](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/understanding-ecosystem-services) like clean water, soil health, and wildlife habitat while supporting the livelihoods of those who depend on these lands for their economic activities. ## What Are “Working Lands?” "Working lands" refers to areas of land that are actively managed for economic production while also providing ecological benefits. These lands are typically used for agriculture, forestry, ranching, and other resource-based activities. Here are some key descriptions of working lands: **Agricultural Lands**: This includes cropland, pastureland, and orchards where food, fiber, and other agricultural products are cultivated. **Forests**: Managed forests that produce timber and non-timber forest products, while also serving as habitats for wildlife and playing a role in carbon sequestration. **Rangelands**: Grasslands and shrublands that are used for grazing livestock and can support biodiversity and various ecosystem functions. ## What is a Conservation Easement? A conservation easement is often a perpetual voluntary legal agreement between a [landowner](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/conservation-for-landowners) and a government agency or a qualified conservation organization that permanently limits the uses of the land in order to protect its conservation values. The primary goal of a conservation easement is to ensure that the land is preserved for conservation purposes, such as protecting wildlife habitats, maintaining open space, preserving agricultural or forest land, and/or safeguarding water resources, while allowing the landowner to retain ownership and use of the property.  ## Why Conserve Working Lands? Working lands in agriculture constitute 40% of the U.S. land mass or 900 million acres. Another 20% or 445 million acres is in private forested lands. This means that **60% of the U.S. is in private working lands!** There is ample opportunity to conserve these productive lands. Working lands also represent opportunities to permanently protect other conservation and community values including: - **Food Security**: Working lands, including farms and ranches, are vital for [producing food, fiber, and other agricultural products](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/securing-food-supply-preserving-local-farmland). - **Economic Viability**: Working lands support local economies by providing jobs in agriculture, forestry, and related industries. Conserving these lands helps sustain livelihoods and contributes to rural economic stability. - **Ecosystem Services**: Working lands provide essential ecosystem services, such as clean water, soil health, and carbon sequestration. - **Habitat for Wildlife**: Many working lands contain important habitats for a variety of species. Conserving these areas helps protect wildlife populations and maintain biodiversity. - **Cultural Heritage**: Working lands often have historical and cultural significance, reflecting the traditions and practices of local communities. - **Recreation and Aesthetics**: Working landscapes often provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and contribute to the scenic beauty of a region. Conserving these areas can enhance quality of life and promote tourism. - **Community Well-being**: Access to local farms and forests can enhance community well-being by providing fresh food, promoting health, and fostering connections between people and the land. - **Controlling Urban Sprawl**: Conserving working lands helps control urban sprawl by protecting agricultural and forested areas from development, maintaining the character of rural landscapes. ## How Common is Working Lands Conservation? 15 million acres of agricultural land is under conservation. While this seems like a lot (and it is), it is only 1.6% of all agricultural land. In addition, over 15 million acres of forested land is under conservation. Again, impressive, but it is only 3.2% of all forested lands. 30 million acres of conserved is proof of concept that preserving working lands is important, but…**there is a lot more work to be done!** ## Is there Funding for Working Lands Conservation? Thankfully there is some funding available at all levels of government for the conservation of working lands. While each state and local municipality differs on whether funding is available and how much, the federal government has four very popular funding programs for working lands conservation: - Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) - Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) - Wetlands Reserve Easements (WRE) - Forest Legacy Program (FLP) - Rural Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) - Uses ACEP funding ## Conclusion In summary, working lands conservation is vital for balancing economic productivity with environmental sustainability, protecting natural resources, and ensuring long-term ecological and community well-being. --- *Conserving working lands and associated aquatic ecosystems is essential for protecting our community’s long term food supplies and ecological diversity, and you can help make a difference. By supporting* ***Unique Places to Save****, you’re directly contributing to conservation of working lands and natural resources that benefit all of us. Your efforts help ensure these systems continue to provide healthy food, clean water, fertile soil, and habitats for countless species.* [Donate Now](https://cta-service-cms2.hubspot.com/web-interactives/public/v1/track/click?encryptedPayload=AVxigLLlCrXXUKQd2c2j5PRL16ZQDpNGDl8s1y%2BU%2B1zw%2Bh3bkc1pmQaLlRCVmV61TQT7BOmwZAP5AJf6WH%2Fc36gMHzAPo5ypWYeSWir1yLA8oIc9nDANxcqWl4EJpOC3ROcMIVISU4IKBYSfUe4loZjjX0UT5vMhQ%2FSojkQx059ml3rriX1Vk28JeJWrrXLBDfY5V7NAit8%3D&portalId=43952016)   About the Author![Michael Scisco](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hs-fs/hubfs/michael%20scisco.jpg?width=208&height=208&name=michael%20scisco.jpg) Michael brings nearly 20 years of experience to his role as Trusted Conservation Advisor at Unique Places to Save. He has worked to conserve over 200,000 acres across the U.S. while securing over $200M in funding and transacting $500M in land and other real estate. [Learn More](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/michael-scisco-conservation-expert) #### We are a trusted partner for owners of working lands   [Learn More](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/conservation-mitigation) ![A slow stream winds through an open wetland meadow lined with cattails and shrubs, with a band of trees on the horizon under a golden evening sky.](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/image%20of%20wetlands%20conservation.jpg) [Conservation for Land Managers](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/conservation-for-land-managers), [Working Lands](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/working-lands) Michael Scisco, September 2026 ### [What Happens After a Mitigation Bank is Complete?](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/mitigation-bank-long-term-management) Regulatory closeout is a major milestone for a mitigation bank. It confirms that the required restoration or enhancement work has been completed, performance standards have been met, and the formal monitoring and maintenance period can end.... ![Pink survey flagging tied to shrubs along a marsh-lined creek on the Point Farm conservation easement, with a weathered stump standing in the still water.](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/point%20farm%20conservation%20mitigation%20easement.jpg) [Conservation for Land Managers](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/conservation-for-land-managers), [Working Lands](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/working-lands) Mandi Taylor, September 2026 ### [The Impossibility of Capturing Nature in a PDF](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/baseline-documentation-report) Every profession has the gap between what the job looks like on paper and what actually happens on the ground. In land conservation, that divide can be neatly summarized by one specific, legal document: the Baseline Documentation Report (BD... ![Mandi Taylor smiling beside a tree in bare winter woods, wearing a cap and a daypack, with pine needles covering the slope behind her.](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/mandi%20in%20the%20field.jpg) [Conservation for Land Managers](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/conservation-for-land-managers), [Working Lands](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/working-lands) Mandi Taylor, September 2026 ### [Behind the Scenes of Land Stewardship](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/what-does-a-land-steward-do) When people think of land conservation wins, they usually picture all the work and coordination required to place land with rich ecological, historical, or cultural value into a conservation easement. And they are right to celebrate those e... ![A shallow rocky river running through summer woodland.](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/photo%20of%20ramseur%20deep%20river.jpg) [Conservation for Land Managers](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/conservation-for-land-managers), [Working Lands](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/tag/working-lands) Sam Warnock, August 2026 ### [The River That Built a Town: Ramseur’s Past Shapes Future Conservation (Part Two)](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/the-river-that-built-a-town-ramseurs-past-shapes-future-conservation-part-two) This is the second installment in a two-part series on the Deep River restoration project in Ramseur, North Carolina. For this series, I sat down with Mayor Hampton Spivey and Town Clerk Carol Akers to hear how growing up alongside the Deep... [![](https://widgets.guidestar.org/prod/v1/pdp/transparency-seal/9341350/svg)](https://app.candid.org/profile/9341350/unique-places-to-save-46-2076094/?pkId=e9b6f29d-825a-42e5-88cd-e7520d3fe801) [Brand Guidelines](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/brand)   |  [Contact](https://uniqueplacestosave.org/contact)   |   [Donate](https://giving.uniqueplacestosave.org/page/donate) [Privacy Policy](https://app.termly.io/policy-viewer/policy.html?policyUUID=9caa4f9b-7b49-4288-a4b5-5c45abbe3ab8)  | [Terms & Conditions](https://app.termly.io/policy-viewer/policy.html?policyUUID=3d5e9999-168e-4629-86bc-82c671729312) | Cookie Consent © Unique Places to Save [Follow us on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/uniqueplaces2save/) [Follow us on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/uniqueplacestosave) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Michael Scisco", "url" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/author/michael-scisco" }, "dateModified" : "2025-08-11T19:12:33.369Z", "datePublished" : "2024-10-17T16:00:00.000Z", "headline" : "Working Lands & Conservation", "image" : [ "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/working%20lands%20conservation%20easement.jpg" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/working-lands-conservation", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/logo%20horizontal-1.png" }, "name" : "Unique Places to Save" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@id" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/#org", "@type" : "NGO", "address" : { "@type" : "PostalAddress", "addressCountry" : "US", "addressLocality" : "Sanford", "addressRegion" : "NC", "postalCode" : "27330", "streetAddress" : "500 Westover Drive #33037" }, "alternateName" : "UP2S", "areaServed" : "United States", "description" : "Unique Places to Save restores and conserves natural and working lands and aquatic resources through conservation protections and sustainable natural resource restoration and management.", "email" : "info@uniqueplacestosave.org", "foundingDate" : "2014", "logo" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/unique%20places%20to%20save%20non%20profit%20land%20trust.png", "name" : "Unique Places to Save", "nonprofitStatus" : "Nonprofit501c3", "sameAs" : [ "https://www.linkedin.com/company/uniqueplaces2save/", "https://www.facebook.com/uniqueplacestosave", "https://landtrustalliance.org/land-trusts/explore/unique-places-to-save-nc", "https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/462076094", "https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/462076094", "https://www.guidestar.org/profile/46-2076094", "https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q140773865" ], "taxID" : "46-2076094", "telephone" : "919-428-2040", "url" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org" } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@id" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/working-lands-conservation#article", "@type" : "Article", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Michael Scisco", "url" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/author/michael-scisco" }, "dateModified" : "2026-09-07", "datePublished" : "2024-10-17", "headline" : "Working Lands & Conservation", "image" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/hubfs/working%20lands%20conservation%20easement.jpg", "publisher" : { "@id" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/#org" }, "url" : "https://uniqueplacestosave.org/news/working-lands-conservation" } ```