Donation of Land by Will (also known as a bequest)

A bequest is also called a "donation by devise" and transfers ownership of property or an easement to a land trust through your will.

This is a great choice if financial compensation is not a necessity and you want to maintain the current use of your land.

In addition, this option can have some estate tax benefits. If your gift of land or an easement represents a significant percentage of the value of your estate, then that value is reduced before the estate encounters the federal estate tax system.

For some families, that has made the difference between keeping property and having to sell it to pay estate taxes.

Gathering Waters Conservancy is a statewide organization that helps land trusts, landowners, and communities protect places that make Wisconsin special. Please visit their site by clicking on the icon on the right for more information.