Oregon Environmental Restriction Easement (ERE) is a legal agreement established between a property owner and a government entity or a qualified land trust to protect and preserve natural resources and environmentally sensitive areas. These easements aim to conserve open spaces, maintain biodiversity, and safeguard critical habitats, ensuring long-term ecological sustainability. ERE types in Oregon: 1. Wetland Easements: These easements focus on the protection and restoration of wetlands, which are essential for flood control, water quality improvement, and providing habitat for numerous plant and animal species. They may include restrictions on draining or filling wetlands, agricultural practices, and preventing the introduction of invasive species. 2. Riparian Easements: Riparian areas are the zones adjacent to streams, rivers, and other water bodies. Riparian easements aim to safeguard these areas by preventing activities such as logging, grazing, and construction that may degrade water quality or alter natural hydrological processes. 3. Habitat Easements: Habitat easements encompass a wide range of ecosystems, including forests, grasslands, meadows, and wildlife corridors, with the objective to conserve and protect critical habitats for indigenous flora and fauna. Activities restricted under habitat easements may include excessive timber harvesting or urban development that may disrupt natural habitats. 4. Farmland Easements: These easements are specifically focused on protecting agricultural lands from conversion to non-agricultural uses. By preserving farmlands, ERE ensures the continuity of sustainable farming practices, promotes local food production, and conserves soil health. Benefits of Oregon Environmental Restriction Easements: a. Conservation of Natural Resources: Eyes play a crucial role in preserving Oregon's diverse ecosystems by preventing the degradation of habitats, safeguarding water quality, and maintaining biodiversity. b. Stewardship of Open Spaces: These easements help in safeguarding vast stretches of undeveloped land, ensuring they remain unspoiled and accessible for recreational activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and nature conservation. c. Protection against Urban Sprawl: Eyes combat the encroachment of urban development into rural areas by restricting non-agricultural and non-essential structures, thus preventing the loss of valuable farmlands and open spaces. d. Tax Incentives: Landowners who participate in ERE programs may be eligible for federal and state tax benefits, including income tax deductions, property tax reductions, and estate tax benefits. e. Collaboration between Public and Private Entities: These easements promote partnerships between landowners, government agencies, and land trusts, fostering a collaborative approach towards environmental conservation and sustainable land management. In conclusion, Oregon Environmental Restriction Easements are crucial tools used to protect and preserve the state's natural resources, habitats, and agricultural lands. By establishing legally binding agreements with property owners, Eyes help maintain ecological balance, foster stewardship of open spaces, and support sustainable land use practices.