Procedures
At the outset of receiving an easement,
the Foundation establishes a baseline description of the condition of
the property and a summary of its key features that are to be protected.
Each year, the Foundation monitors the condition of the properties for
which it holds easements. This includes an on-site inspection and a report
of findings.
After the annual inspection, donors receive a report on the status of
the easement, along with incidental recommendations for maintenance, if
appropriate.
When property owners plan improvements the Foundation works with them
to establish an approach that will meet programmatic needs while also
preserving the integrity and significance of the property. When a formal
strategy is developed, the Foundation evaluates the appropriateness of
the proposed work using its standards and guidelines. The completed work
is then documented in the subsequent annual monitoring.
The Foundation also provides information related to preservation. This
may include referrals to publications addressing technical preservation
procedures and identification of professionals in design, planning and
land use law who may assist property owners in maintaining the resources