§5B-2G-7. Definitions.

For purposes of this article, the following terms have the meanings set forth in this section.

(a) “Board” means the board of trustees established in section three of this article.

(b) “Conservation easement” means a nonpossessory interest in real property as defined in section three, article twelve, chapter twenty of this code, except that a conservation easement acquired pursuant to this article shall be held in perpetuity.

(c) “Conservation purposes” means the conservation of land for outdoor recreation by the public, for conservation of natural plant and wildlife habitat or similar ecosystem, for conservation of forestland and other open spaces, for conservation of land of historical or cultural significance or as further defined under conservation criteria developed in this article.

(d) “Eligible grant recipient” means:

(1) The following state agencies:

(A) Division of Natural Resources;

(B) Division of Forestry; or

(2) A charitable corporation, charitable association or charitable trust registered with the Secretary of State and exempt from taxation pursuant to Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 [Public Law 99-514, 26 U.S.C. §501(c)(3)] or other federal or state statutes or rules, the purposes or powers of which include retaining or protecting the natural, scenic, agricultural or open-space values of real property; assuring the availability of real property for agricultural, forest, recreational or open-space use; protecting natural resources and wildlife; maintaining or enhancing land, air or water quality; or preserving the historical, architectural, archaeological or cultural aspects of real property, as defined in section three, article twelve, chapter twenty of this code, and that has a primary part of its mission to acquire interests in real property for conservation purposes.

(e) “Fund” means the West Virginia Outdoor Heritage Conservation Fund established in this article.

(f) “Land conservation” means acquisition of interests in real property from willing sellers for conservation purposes.

(g) “Stewardship” means the necessary monitoring, maintenance and enforcement of interests in real property for conservation purposes.