Conservation easements are a tool for placing deeded restrictions on a parcel of land to control the land use forever. Usually, they are to retain ranch uses and/or natural states. The land owners, who still retain ownership, can receive cash compensation and tax breaks.

The state money comes from a parks and wildlife bond passed by voters in 2002. The other conservation easement is the 113 acre Greil Ranch in southeastern Washoe Valley. This is the alfalfa fields along Eastlake Blvd where the deer congregate.