I am a long time farmer and land trust board member. I serve as adjunct faculty in Thompson School at the University of New Hampshire teaching horse/farm management.
I have completed three easement purchases through NRCS, state LMF funding and our local land trust and negotiated multiple donated easements. I understand the complexities of the easement processes and can walk landowners and land trusts through easements and their subsequent monitoring responsibilities. There is no single format that works for all farm operations. Assessing the needs/resources of the farmer and the conservation organization should be part of the process. I have also managed capital campaigns to fund easement purchases.
Many farmers look at their operations and see only the uses they have implemented on their properties. This can become limiting when transfer to a new owner is contemplated. I can evaluate production options for property as they related to facilities, proximity to markets and services, soils and zoning.
Fees: An initial meeting to discuss the project scope and service assessment is free. A per hour price ranging from $15-$20 depending on services + travel expenses. References are available on request.