Each Curatorship is special and unique, which means that some Curatorships might require slightly different approaches when it comes to restoration, maintenance and management. Below are general guidelines.

Curatorship Expenses:

A Curatorship proposal typically represents at least $200,000-$250,000 worth of initial improvements to the property. Certain properties may require significantly greater investment depending on size, condition, etc. Additionally, Curators are responsible for costs associated with the maintenance and operation of the property throughout the course of their lifetime, including utilities and taxes (if applicable). Curators are responsible for providing annual accounting of their expenses to the Department.

*Expenses associated with the Curatorship are generally not tax-deductible because curators receive rights to tenancy in exchange for their expenditures.  Please consult your tax professional.

Providing Access to the Curatorship:

Curators must share their restoration experiences and the property with the public 3-5 times per year. This can be done through open-house events hosted by the Curator, or through other creative ways, such as maintaining a blog, submitting articles for local papers, or providing materials for a virtual tour to be posted on the program website.

In addition to sharing your experiences with the public, the Curaotrship properties are inspected regularly by department representatives. These periodic evaluations are meant to monitor and document progress, as well as create an important record for insurance purposes.

Curatorships are within public lands, such as State Parks and Curators should understand that department staff might require access to the premises to carry out their duties. Similarly, visitors might pass through or nearby the Curatorship either on trails or part of other types of recreation. As partners with the State, Curators are expected to maintain professionalism and respect when interacting with Park Visitors and Staff.

Insuring the property:

The Department of Natural Resources insures the structure against fire, flood, etc.In the event that there is damage to the structure, a claim must be filed with the Program Manager.

To protect their personal belongings, Curators must purchase and maintain renters insurance and liability insurance and name the State as co-insured.  Curators may also obtain additional insurance on improvements.

Permits, plans, and permissions:

All plans and renovations must be in adherence with building and safety codes. Although sweat equity can be performed by Curators or volunteers, all plumbing, structural, and electrical work must be performed by a certified (and insured) professional. A copy of the contractor’s license/certification and insurance is to be provided to the Program Manager.

So that the Department of Natural Resources can guarantee that Curators are in compliance with both State and Federal environmental impact laws, all proposed work must undergo review. The process is coordinated by the Program Manager and typically takes about 30 days. When in doubt, call the Program Manager!

Historic Preservation Standards:

The Curatorship Program is primarily an historic preservation program that seeks to restore, protect, and share properties that are important to local, state, and national history. While modern accommodations are acceptable, all work must comply with “The Secretary of Interior’s Standards for Historic Preservation.”

Any work outside of the original proposal must undergo review and receive written permission. The Program Manager is available to provide technical guidance if needed. Additionally, because these properties are historic, Curators must receive permission prior to any digging or ground disturbance as this might impact archaeological resources. Typically the review process takes about 30 days.

Families and Curatorship Properties:

Minors cannot be parties to a Curatorship Lease Agreement, nor can the Curatorship be inherited, divided, or awarded by Curators or any court. In the event of a divorce or separation, Curators must come to an independent agreement and present the department with a revised proposal as to how to they plan on maintaining their role as Curators of the property. Curators may not sublease the property or arrange for a long-term caretaker without consulting with the department.

Animals and Curatorships:

Depending on the size of the Curatorship, Curators might be allowed to have a limited number of livestock. A proposal must be submitted to the Program Manager for review and Nutrient Management Plan must be completed to ensure impact to the land is minimal.

Because Curatorships are not state-designated hunting areas, no hunting is permitted.