About Conservation Development

conservation3.jpg Residential development in rural areas is presently experiencing a renaissance as people migrate from the cities to the country with new goals and expectations. Homeowners increasingly believe sprawl developments in rural areas don’t meet their desires for community, access to amenities, or enjoyment of a rural lifestyle. Out of favor are the large homes designed to look imposing, centered in 5 or 10 acre lots with little regard to sightlines, wetlands, soil conditions, heritage or natural amenities.

conservation1.jpgA variety of terms have sprung up for this approach – Conservation Development, Planned Rural Development, Special Interest Communities, and New Ruralism. All describe a movement that aims to balance growth with preservation, maintaining open space and rural character. They share a focus on responsible and sustainable communities designed to enhance, rather than obliterate, the special character of the best rural lands, and preserve the values of past generations. The new design philosophy focuses on quality of life, and a closer connection to the land and to nature. In contrast to the so-called New Urbanists, who value close association with neighbors in clusters of homes and commercial districts, the New Ruralists value privacy and connections to the land and nature.

Conservation is a key element in New Ruralism. Usually the development consists of single family homes placed with a sensitivity to sightlines, traditional community patterns, natural elements of the land, and access to amenities. Conservation easements protect key lands from development and provide buffer spaces that help preserve the original rural character of the land. There is a focus on rural amenities people seek in moving away from the cities and suburbs – open spaces, nature close at hand, tranquility and views, and integration into the countryside, often without having to leave behind access to some of the more desirable elements of city living.

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  In New Ruralism, certain amenities are key:

  • Rural Lifestyle: People seek an alternative to the crime, congestion and confinement of urban living. They value enjoyment of natural features – views, foliage, space, quiet, and a slower pace of life.

  • Views: For many, a view of a mountain range, seashore, lake, and stream or river valley is a strong draw to the countryside. Others often seek the privacy and seclusion of living in a forested area, or to overlook farms and ranches.

  • Nature Trails: Often developments will preserve and enhance special natural features such as riverbanks, streams, hilltops or fields. Some provide common access for owners to recreational features such as lakefront beaches, fishing docks, and trails for hiking, Nordic skiing or horseback riding.

  • conservation4.jpgVillages & Towns: Rural amenities focus not just on natural features, but also on lifestyle. Many rural developments are built proximate to small village or town centers where people can become part of a small community. Near college towns or certain cultural areas, the best of city life is still available – access to cultural and recreational events, shops and restaurants, and high-quality medical care. Many such areas are becoming retirement destinations for the well-to-do, providing the important services that demographic values.

  • Specialty Concepts: Some communities emphasize a special interest such as aviation, horses, or boating. Others build on a desire to get close to the life cycle of a working farm or ranch. Owners can enjoy the amenities without the high cost and full-time maintenance that comes with sole ownership, and have the freedom to leave it all behind when they want to go away.