Questions and Answers on Land Acquisition in Indiana Dunes National Park
1. Is the National Park Service (NPS) still buying property within the park boundary?
The NPS may purchase private property within the national park boundary from willing sellers.
2. Does the NPS use condemnation to acquire property?
Although the NPS has acquired property by condemnation in the past, no property has been acquired by condemnation at Indiana Dunes in several decades. At present, the NPS is only acquiring property from willing sellers or by donation.
3. My property is outside the park boundary and does not abut the boundary. Can I sell or donate it to you?
The NPS cannot purchase or receive donated property outside the established park boundary. The park boundary is established by Congress.
4. My property is outside the park boundary, but abuts the boundary. Can I sell it or donate it to you?
The NPS can accept donated property outside the boundary if the property directly abuts the park boundary. The NPS cannot purchase the property in this situation.
5. Is there a tax benefit to donating my property?
There is often a tax benefit to donating land to the National Park Service. Tax conditions related to your situation would be something you would want to explore with your lawyer or accountant.
6. If my property is within the park boundary and I want to sell it, who do I contact?
If you are interested in selling your property, please contact the national park by calling 219-395-1699.
