In a situation where a landowner wishes to retain control over lake frontage while allowing lot owners access, which type of easement would offer the most protection?

An appurtenant easement is the correct choice in this scenario because it is attached to and benefits a specific piece of property, allowing lot owners access while keeping the lakefront control with the landowner. This type of easement can provide clarity and predictability regarding the rights and responsibilities of both the landowner and the lot owners.

When an easement is appurtenant, it is typically recorded with the property deed, creating a permanent right for the lot owners to access the lake, as long as they own the adjacent property. This ensures that the rights of the lakefront remain intact with the landowner while granting access needed for enjoyment and use of the lake to the neighboring properties.

In contrast, other types of easements, like an easement in gross, are not tied to a particular property and don’t confer the same level of protection or clarity regarding land use. An easement by necessity may only apply in circumstances where access is critically required, and a license is generally considered a temporary permission to use someone's property and can be revoked at any time. Thus, choosing an appurtenant easement strikes a balance, preserving the landowner's control while enabling access for the lot owners.