The WVLT has unique strengths as an organization devoted to conserving our state’s special places.

     We have affiliation with and technical assistance from the nation’s standard bearer for land trust work, the Land Trust Alliance; yet we are purely a private West Virginia non-profit, working exclusively here at home. We see the entire state as our potential territory, and yet our work is carried out in a very local and even personal way. Our projects are relationship-based, and we have flexibility when working with landowners and local land trusts to meet custom needs.

     Unlike some organizations which specialize in specific conservation values, our mission is conserving West Virginia's "special places" that give West Virginia its distinctive character. That means that we may consider scenic, wildlife, botanical, recreational , or historical conservation values when evaluating a project.

     If you are considering a conservation easement to preserve your property in perpetuity, the first step is to send us some basic information about the land. Remember, establishing an easement is a process, not a single event. We will work with you to evaluate whether or not this is your best option, and help guide you through the multi-step process if it is.

     To print our property checklist, click here. ( Criteria Checklist PDF file)