Setting the Record Straight on Conservation Easements

Conservation easements are a hot topic. There is no shortage of opinion and some folks aren’t shy about voicing those opinions. I read newspaper editorials every day and believe, without a doubt, that the editorial forum remains one of the strongest bastions of America’s defense of free speech. I enjoy reading opinions reflecting philosophical beliefs or personal values, particularly when those opinions are supported with accurate facts, and the key word here, is accurate. Sometimes a letter is written and supported by inaccurate information.

These letters are difficult to read, particularly when the writer concludes with statements of proclaimed truth based on the bad information. There have been a number of poorly informed comments concerning conservation easements in past letters to the editor, which has compelled me to respond and set the record straight.

Mark Schiltz

Full Story: http://www.flatheadbeacon.com/articles/article/setting_the_record_straight_on_conservation_easements/2369/

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If you’re interested in learning more about Conservation Easements and why they’re so important to the future of Montana, please contact one of these organizations: http://www.montanalandtrusts.org/memberdirectory/

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Montana farm couples can receive estate planning incentive

The first 40 couples who work through an estate planning process can receive $100 off of any follow-up attorney fees as part of a free Web-based program for young and old farm and ranch couples offered by Montana State University Extension.

“In prior years we targeted young couples because we wanted them to work with older couples in the estate planning process,” said Marsha Goetting, MSU Extension family economics specialist. “But the younger couples told us we needed to involve the older generation in discussions about estate issues because in most cases the older generation still has control of the property.”

Full Story: http://theprairiestar.com/articles/2008/02/22/ag_news/local_and_regional_news/local11.txt