Tax credit helping to save priceless heritage
"Powerful tool protects state heritage" would have been a better title and theme for the News editorial of Dec. 26 ("A lucrative scheme to not develop land").
Colorado's innovative conservation easement tax credit is an effective tool that protects our state's priceless heritage. Here in Mesa County, the tax credit has helped conserve orchards around Palisade, wildlife habitat along the Colorado River, and scenic, productive ranchland.
The tax credit has made Colorado a national leader in private land conservation. The growth in the use of the tax credit means that more property owners are choosing to conserve the natural lands that make Colorado what it is.
As with any innovative public program, the credit can use some fine-tuning. The land conservation community stands ready and eager to work with the state to ensure that future generations of Coloradans get the maximum benefit from our conservation activities today.
Rob Bleiberg
Executive director, Mesa Land Trust
Grand Junction