It is chartered to preserve and protect open space in order to maintain Utah's natural heritage and quality of life for present and future generations.

This is achieved by assisting private landowners, government agencies and communities in the voluntary preservation of the agricultural, scenic, recreational, historic and wildlife values of open land.

Their primary conservation tool is the conservation easement, which is a permanent, legally binding contract that restricts development to protect the special features of the property.

The Farm and Ranch Protection Act made available estate and income tax benefits for landowners who protect their land with conservation easements.

The donation of a conservation easement may be considered a charitable contribution.