What does a conservation easement allow property owners to do?

A conservation easement is a legal agreement that limits the development and use of property in order to protect its conservation values. This means that when property owners enter into a conservation easement, they are agreeing to keep their land in a natural or historically significant condition. This restriction can help preserve ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and cultural resources, ensuring that these areas remain intact for future generations.

By contrast, the other options suggest actions that would typically contradict the purpose of a conservation easement. Subdividing the land into smaller parcels could lead to increased development and potential harm to the environment, while developing the land for commercial use would directly oppose the goal of preservation. Lastly, selling the land without restrictions undermines the conservation intent, as it could lead to changes that may threaten the land's natural or historic character. Thus, the essence of a conservation easement centers on conservation and preservation rather than development or unrestricted use.