The General Assembly recognizes the critical role nonprofit conservation organizations and organizations that are tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the federal Internal Revenue Code have in partnering with cities, counties, and the state in accomplishing the land conservation goals as set forth in this chapter. Therefore, the state looks to these organizations to provide program education to the public and private sector; to partner with cities, counties, the department, the commission, other state departments or agencies, and other state authorities in the identification and development of land conservation project proposals; to promote existing and new partnership enhancement tools; to promote transferable partnership models, including demonstration projects to assist cities and counties with securing the local funding match; and to take an active role in the permanent protection of conservation lands by holding fee simple title or easements to lands.