Spotlight on Updates: Conservation Easement Monitoring and Conservation Property Inspections Part 1

The update made in 2026 clarifies that, for monitoring/inspection events that are based solely on remote satellite or aerial imagery, the reports need to include the date the image was captured, the data source, and either a copy of the image or the permanent storage location of the images/photos. Including this information will increase the likelihood the reports will be admissible as evidentiary evidence in court under the business record rules.

How will the updates be implemented?
All changes will be effective in 2027 to allow land trusts time to revise their practices as needed. When the time comes, applicants must provide sufficient documentation to confirm implementation of the changed requirement. 

See the full summary of changes.