The Public Benefit Rating System (PBRS) program encourages voluntary resource conservation on private property. PBRS (also known as Open Space) is best suited for landowners wanting to protect, manage or restore open space resources on their property. There are over 1,450 landowners and 14,200 acres currently participating in this program.

A point system determines PBRS enrollment level through qualification of PBRS resource categories. The number of points awarded determines the associated tax savings. Resource categories include protecting buffers to streams and wetlands, ground water protection, preserving significant wildlife habitat, as well as conserving farmland and forestland through implementing best management practices. The total points awarded results in a 50% to 90% reduction in land assessed value for the part of the property enrolled. The Resource Information document provides more information on each qualifying resource category as well as other program requirements.

Technical assistance is available for those conducting forest, agricultural, or weed related stewardship practices on their participating property.