New Web Site coming soon!

 The Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy will have a brand new web site in March 2008. We appreciate your patience during our on-line transition and are thankful for your support for land conservation.

POP UP TAX

On December 7, 2006, a “pop up tax” elimination bill for land enrolled in conservation easements became law in Michigan with Governor Jennifer Granholm’s signature. GTRLC Executive Director Glen Chown was on hand for the bill signing ceremony, as were Senator Michelle McManus who sponsored the bill, and State Representative Dave Palsrok, who shepherded the bill through the state House. Both Senator McManus and Representative Palsrok represent districts GTRLC’s operating area; we are thrilled to see the fruition of this wonderful bipartisan conservation partnership!

The new law will enable landowners to protect the land they love for their families and for future generations by eliminating the “pop up tax.” It prevents the taxable value of conservation property from "popping-up" to the state equalized value when it is transferred. Prior to enactment of this law, many landowners found passing undeveloped conservation lands to their heirs was not possible given the inability of the heir to pay the sharply higher property taxes. click above to read:

Many thanks to Governor Granholm, Senator McManus and Representative Palsrok for their early conservation gift in this holiday season!

Congress has passed, and the President has signed, significant new legislation benefiting donors of voluntary conservation agreements to organizations like GTRLC.

Congressman Dave Camp, who represents two of GTRLC's service-area counties was instrumental in getting this legislation created and passed. If you see him, tell him THANKS!

The Michigan legislature has also passed conservation - related bills as well. To learn more about the new tax incentives for conservation click below.