The Day continued its practice of thoughtful coverage of environmental issues with its editorial “Land preservation ruling could set powerful precedent,” (March 31), commenting on the judgment in favor of the Lyme Land Conservation Trust in their suit against the violator of a conservation easement that they hold.

When a property owner places a deed restriction such as a conservation easement on a piece of land, it is with the understanding that the land will be preserved in its natural state in perpetuity. While the property owner can sell the land, this restriction is binding upon subsequent owners, who will acquire the land at a reduced price reflective of its limited development potential and pay no property taxes on the portion of the land held as open space.

The Lyme Land Conservation Trust is to be applauded for its courage in honoring the intentions of the original property owner. It is no small thing for a nonprofit organization to undertake legal action, with the risk of incurring legal costs and no guarantee of a favorable outcome. They have created a precedent that will benefit other land trusts, and help ensure the preservation of natural open space for future generations.

Michele Fitzpatrick, President

Avalonia Land Conservancy, Inc.

Old Mystic