‘Hope I’m going to live that long’: Land conservation program leaves applicants in limbo

In Massachusetts, preserving more forests, fields and wetlands is a critical way the state plans to slow climate change. But a popular land conservation program leaves many property owners in limbo. They apply, spend $5,000-$15,000 on surveys, appraisals and legal fees and then wait. "I might die before this is done," said one applicant.