Cragsmoor Land Trust

A voluntary, permanent legal agreement that restricts development while you retain ownership. You continue using your land — the restrictions bind all future owners.

A substantial income tax deduction equal to the appraised value difference. New York also provides property tax benefits. Consult a tax professional for specifics.

Yes. Full ownership retained, and you can sell your property. The easement will also prevent subdivision and commercial development.

No, unless you specifically allow it. Your land remains completely private.

A land trust is a nonprofit organization that conserves and protects land by accepting donations of land or conservation easements. The Cragsmoor Land Trust works specifically to conserve and protect open space in the hamlet of Cragsmoor and its environs.

Through annual memberships starting at $30/year, private donations, and partnerships with organizations like the Open Space Institute. We are a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization — all contributions are tax-deductible.

We protect 55 total acres — 9 acres of owned land and 46 acres under conservation easement. Our largest easement is the 37-acre Muller property on the southern edge of Cragsmoor, donated in 2011.

Cragsmoor sits atop the Shawangunk Ridge, designated by NYS DEC as a Significant Biodiversity Area. It is the only residential community on the ridge and lies within a critical corridor of intact habitats spanning 50 miles across three New York counties.

Yes! We welcome volunteers for trail maintenance, road clean-up programs, invasive species removal, and other conservation activities. Contact us at or email jeff@cragsmoor.net to get involved.

Contact us! Free, no-obligation consultations. Call or email info@cragsmoorlandtrust.info.