Isakson Supports Credit for Environmental Easements

[1] Following the passing of our mutual friend, United States Senator Paul Coverdell, I was approached by a number of Republicans and organizations that had been working with the Senator on a major piece of legislation he had planned to introduce around the time of his tragic passing. I was asked by the group to consider sponsoring the legislation in the U.S. House to becoming its proponent.

[2] After a great deal of study, I developed a keen interest in the proposal and introduced in the 106th and 107th Congress. In the 107th Congress it was designated as H.R. 882, which went to the Ways and Means Committee and was the subject of a hearing in September of this year. The legislation creates a 5-year $20 billion qualified tax credit program designed to create the funding for the acquisition by qualified 501(c)(3) organizations of environmental easements for the protection of sensitive waterways, wetlands, migratory paths and sensitive environmental areas. Environmental easements offer a tremendous opportunity to preserve critical environmental areas without the taking of the land. By restricting land use and development through easement, the environment is protected and the owner still retains the quiet enjoyment of his property. The proposal offers three outstanding advantages. First, through environmental easements, sensitive environmental land can be protected at a multiple of ten times that which it would cost for the federal government or a land trust to actually purchase the land. Second, it's good for farmers, ranchers and landowners in that they preserve their ownership, reduce their ad valorem tax base and receive a financial benefit. Third, and most importantly, it allows the United States government to act as a catalyst for partnerships with qualified 501(c)(3) organizations to protect and preserve critical environmental areas.

[3] Rather than go into greater detail in this letter, I have included a copy of "The Value of Conservation Easements," funded by the West Hill Foundation for Nature, Inc., and including critical analysis of the benefits and positive effects of this proposal. I have also included a booklet prepared especially for you by Mr. Carl W. Knobloch, Jr., and Christopher Glenn Sawyer. Carl was a lifelong friend of Senator Coverdell, and is President of the West Hill Foundation for Nature, Inc. Carl is an extremely successful businessman, investor and entrepreneur who has been a major contributor to the growth and building of the Republican Party in Georgia, and who is committed to our Party playing a critical role in the protection of our ecosystem in the United States. Chris Sawyer is a longtime friend of mine with whom I have worked on many projects, including the successful Chattahoochee National Recreation Area which created the country's largest urban national recreation area. Chris and I worked closely with the Trust for Public Land, which did a majority of the legwork and property acquisition, which has and will become a part of this national treasure along the Chattahoochee River.

[4] Mr. President, I personally believe the Administration should consider this proposal as a part of its environmental policy in the 108th Congress. Whether a part of a new energy bill, a stand- alone environmental bill or a component of comprehensive environmental policy, this legislation would be critical in fostering support from diverse and quality environmental groups like the Trust for Public Land and the Nature Conservancy. Once established, this program could well become the primary method of protecting sensitive environmental areas throughout the United States without requiring government taking of property. More importantly, it will be a key in helping us protect vital component parts of our ecosystem for future generations to come, and the betterment and well being of our citizens.

[5] Vice President Cheney has also received the information I have forwarded to you, and I was asked last fall to meet with his Legislative Policy Advisor * * * because of his interest in the concept. It is my hope that you will direct this to the appropriate members of your staff, and it is my personal hope that we will have the opportunity to discuss it in the months ahead.

[6] I am very proud to be serving in the Congress of the United States on behalf of the people of Georgia and under your steady, dedicated and dynamic leadership. I appreciate your taking the time to evaluate this letter and the accompanying proposal, and I stand ready to discuss it with whomever you wish to direct me.

[7] Best wishes to you and your family during the coming Holiday Season, and please don't ever hesitate to call me if I can be of service to you.