Although many ecogifts are outright donations of land with no conditions attached, there are options available that allow donors and recipients to tailor their arrangements to suit their particular needs.

For example, approximately half of all ecogift donations to date have been "partial interests in land" known as conservation easements, covenants or servitudes. These partial interests are legal agreements that protect a property's conservation value by permanently placing terms and conditions on its use. For example, the agreement may prevent the land from being subdivided into smaller lots, protect trees from being cut, or limit the construction of any buildings to a particular area. Under the terms of these agreements, which are determined by the donor, the donor continues to own the land and may live on it, sell it, or pass it on to heirs. The recipient ensures that the restrictions put on the property are followed in perpetuity, regardless of who owns the land.

Retaining the Right to Use Land Donated as an Ecological Gift