Your Guide to Easements · What is a conservation easement? What are the tax benefits? What are the conservation benefits? Who will hold the easement?...
Clarke County Easement Authority (CCEA) plays a pivotal role in managing and protecting the county's natural resources and infrastructure. This article delves into the functions, establishment, and processes of the CCEA, providing a comprehensive understanding of this vital authority.
The Clarke County Easement Authority is a public body established by the Clarke County Board of Supervisors to acquire, hold, and manage easements for the purpose of protecting the county's natural resources, scenic beauty, and public infrastructure. The CCEA works in conjunction with the Clarke County Service Authority (CCSA) to ensure the effective and efficient management of these easements.
The CCEA was established in 1990 under the Virginia Easement Act, with the primary purpose of protecting the county's natural resources and scenic beauty. The authority is governed by a five-member board, appointed by the Clarke County Board of Supervisors, and is funded through a dedicated real estate tax.

CCEA acquires easements through voluntary negotiations with landowners. The authority offers fair compensation for the easement rights, ensuring that landowners are not negatively impacted. The CCEA can also accept donations of easement rights from landowners who wish to protect their property's natural resources and scenic beauty.
Once acquired, the CCEA is responsible for managing and monitoring the easements to ensure they remain effective in protecting the county's natural resources and scenic beauty. This includes regular inspections, maintaining records, and enforcing the terms of the easement agreements.
The CCEA works closely with the CCSA to ensure the effective management of easements that protect public infrastructure. The CCSA is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the county's water and sewer systems, and easements are crucial for providing access to these systems for maintenance and repairs.

The CCEA is funded through a dedicated real estate tax, ensuring that the authority has the resources necessary to acquire, manage, and enforce easements. The tax rate is set by the Clarke County Board of Supervisors and is reviewed annually to ensure that the CCEA has the funds it needs to fulfill its mission.
If you're a Clarke County landowner interested in protecting your property's natural resources and scenic beauty through an easement, or if you'd like to learn more about the CCEA's work, we encourage you to get involved. You can contact the CCEA for more information or to schedule a consultation.
<strong>Clarke County Conservation Easement Authority</strong><p>Your Guide to Easements · What is a conservation easement? What are the tax benefits? What are the conservation benefits? Who will hold the easement?</p>
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