What to prepare before proposing land for conservation

Describe what is there today

Start with an approximate area, a general location and recent photographs. Note forests, water sources, important trees, existing paths and areas that may need restoration. Describe current uses as well as the changes you hope to make.

Keep estimates labeled as estimates. A survey can help clarify boundaries, but a photograph or map pin does not establish ownership. Exact coordinates of sensitive natural features do not need to appear in a public project story.

Identify who needs to be involved

List the owners, caretakers and other people who may have rights or responsibilities connected to the land. If decisions are shared, the proposal needs to reflect that. A single contact person should not be treated as having authority to commit everyone else.

For a Colombian project, questions about ownership, collective rights, land use and the agreement itself need locally qualified review. This guide is a preparation checklist, not legal advice or a determination that a property is eligible.

Choose a realistic first commitment

A proposal can explain which part of the property is being considered and which activities need support. Avoid promising work that cannot be carried out safely or maintained over time. The eventual scope and duration must be agreed through the review process.

Separate everyday care from new work. Path maintenance, a field visit and restoration planting have different resource needs. For any proposed planting, local ecological advice should come before choosing species or quantities.

• General location and approximate area.
• Who owns, uses and cares for the land.
• Existing land uses and relevant documents.
• Care activities, estimated costs and practical limits.
• Questions about payment, duration and responsibilities.

Ask the payment questions early

Ask who is expected to provide funding, whether it has been secured, what conditions apply to payments and which costs or fees will be deducted. Ask how you can raise a concern or request a change.

An initial expression of interest should not be confused with an executed conservation agreement, an approved project or a promise of income. Living Places is preparing its pilot and operating process; check the current status before submitting documents or making a commitment.