Methods of Open Space Preservation
Open space is preserved in North Hampton through the use of Conservation Easements.
Conservation Easements are placed on the property and limit the development of the property. Easements are recorded at the Registry of Deeds and remain attached to the property forever.
There are a variety of methods that can be used to place Conservation Easements on a parcel of property. The following is a list various methods for obtaining Conservation Easements and are listed in order of preference to the Town.
 The Conservation Easement would be donated to the Town by the owner of the property. The property owner would retain ownership and control of the property in its existing state. Property taxes would continue to be paid to the Town. This would require no or minimal expense to the Town.The property owner would donate the property to the Town. The Town would then place an easement on the property. Again there would be no or minimal expense to the Town.
A combination of a third party donation and purchase of the Conservation Easement. Title to the property would be held by the 3rd party making making the donation. Property taxes would continue to be paid to the town.
The Town would purchase the development rights and place a Conservation Easement on the property. Property taxes would continua to be paid to the Town
 Matching funds would be used where possible. Bargain sales and "home town discounts" whenever possible.
The Town would purchase the land and place a Conservation Easement on the property.
The same cost reduction methods discussed above would be used.
The Town would purchase the land and develop a small portion to offset the original purchase cost. A Conservation Easement would be placed on the remaining property.
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