Conservation easements have been a powerful tool to protect land from development, and conservationists are lauding the new tax law for extending enhanced federal tax breaks for donating land development rights through 2013 (and retroactively back to Jan. 1, 2012).

FORBES: Good And Bad News For Conservationists In New Tax Law

The "land value tax, " he suggested, could boost the economy, smooth income disparities, and encourage development of empty lots.

WSJ: It's a Lonely Quest for Land-Tax Fans, But, by George, They Press On