Why Land Trusts?

So what's so fascinating about Land Trusts? It seems to me that they are a middle ground between what has become two stereotyped interest groups. The tree hugging, progress hating, granola munching, blue stated environmentalist vs. the land raping, SUV driving, steak eating, red stated developer. Like much else in America, the broad brush strokes have just enough truth to stick in the minds of those who don't pay much attention. I like the idea of the trusts, because they are a non-coercive way to achieve a mutual end. Save chunks of valuable land, but don't tick off the people who own the land. It's a third way to reach the goal of saving the planet for the kids and their kids. It's not the only answer, but it is an answer.