When considering which one to contact first, it is important to remember that there isn’t one “right path” to take. Everyone’s family situation is different. Instead let the questions, generated from your family meetings or developed by yourself, drive the next step that makes the most sense for you.

It is important to recognize that land is a unique type of asset that often requires specific knowledge. When selecting an estate planning professional, be sure to work with someone who has experience suited to your goals for the land.

Below are the descriptions of professional who can assist you. 

A land protection specialist works for a state or private conservation organization.  Provides land conservation options and guidance to meet the conservation goals of you and your family. Find a land protection specialist working in your town. Learn more about working with a conservation organization to conserve your land.

An estate planning attorney writes a will or trust that includes your wishes for the land and can help you determine your best options for land ownership. Find an estate planning attorney with land conservation experience. 

A financial planner reviews your current financial situation and anticipates future needs.

A tax attorney or CPA develops strategies to minimize your taxes, increasing the amount of assets given to your family. Find a tax attorney and CPA with land conservation experience. Learn more about taxes that may impact you as you decide the future of your land.

An appraiser determines the value of your land and the value of a conservation restriction. Find an appraiser with land conservation experience.

A forester provides information and guidance about the Chapter 61 current use programs to save property taxes, determine the ecological value of your land, develops an estimate of timber value, and provides land management options. Find a forester working in your town.

• Find a Forester working in your town
• Find a land protection specialist or estate planning professional