Forest Conservation Easement Program Act of 2025

# Forest Conservation Easement Program Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Does:** The Forest Conservation Easement Program Act of 2025 would establish a new federal program to protect forests by creating conservation easements—legal agreements where landowners voluntarily restrict development on their property in exchange for financial incentives or tax benefits. The program would help preserve forests while allowing landowners to keep their land rather than selling it to the government. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects private forest landowners who would have the option to participate in the program, conservation organizations that would help administer easements, and the general public who would benefit from protected forestland and its environmental benefits (like carbon storage, wildlife habitat, and watershed protection). **Current Status:** As of now, S. 1050 is in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate.

The bill was sponsored by Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY). No additional details about specific program provisions are currently available in the public record.