Private Land Access

At some point, most Atlasers encounter a common problem – lack of access to private lands.  Maybe they are trying to bird a unique habitat, chase down a rare species, or complete a thorough survey of the block. Inevitably, they find that most of the priority block is owned by private landowners.  The process of gaining access, and the best way to go about doing so, might at first appear difficult. Atlas volunteers and technicians have identified and shared effective ways to approach this problem. Today we pass along those lessons.Gaining access to private lands for avian surveys requires tact, communication skills, and respect for landowners’ rights and concerns.

Here are some strategies for Atlasers to navigate access to private lands:

1. Identify the landowner: By visiting the NCBA Block Map webpage and clicking on the “Parcels (Ownership)” box in the layers legend of this map, you are able to zoom in on each priorityy block to see property boundaries.  Next, click on a parcel of interest to see landowner information.  Please note the arrow on top of this pop-up window indicating ownership, as you may have to click the arrow button to see all of the information.
2. Seek Permission: Always obtain explicit permission from landowners before entering private property. Approach them courteously, explaining the purpose of your survey and how it may benefit conservation efforts or contribute to scientific research. Respect their decision, whether it’s a yes or a no.  Need help getting the conversation started with a landowner? HERE is a link to landowner letter templates.
3. Build Relationships: Establishing rapport with landowners can facilitate access in the long term. Regular communication,or sharing survey findings can foster trust and goodwill.
4. Be Prepared: Plan your survey meticulously. Clearly outline your objectives, methods, and expected duration of the survey. Address any concerns the landowner may have regarding potential disturbances or safety issues.
5. Minimize Impact: Respect the land and its inhabitants. Stay on designated paths or areas to minimize disturbance to wildlife and habitat. Avoid trampling vegetation or disturbing nests, and adhere to any specific guidelines provided by the landowner.
6. Document Consent: Keep records of all communications with landowners, including permissions granted and any agreed-upon conditions for access. Having a written agreement can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure accountability.
7. Show Gratitude: Acknowledge the landowner’s generosity and cooperation. A thank-you note or a small token of appreciation can go a long way in maintaining positive relationships and securing future access.  HERE is a link to landowner thank you letter templates.

By following these best practices, you can navigate the complexities of gaining access to private lands for Atlasing while fostering mutual respect between Atlasers and landowners.