Accredited Land Trusts

Congratulations to all of the 105 Land Trust Alliance members who have earned accreditation through the land trust accreditation program.  Thank you for all you do to strengthen land conservation!

Land trusts listed alphabetically with year accredited in parentheses.

Alabama

Freshwater Land Trust (2009). “Within the problem lies the solution.” The can-do staff at Freshwater has a multifaceted mission – restore the rivers and make land conservation a priority.  Its Jefferson [County] Greenways Program cleaned up polluted Five Mile Creek by acquiring land and conducting programs that preserve 60+ miles of rivers and streams. The community benefits too – with open space for canoe launches, trails and recreation.  The Trust is also working to realize elements of the historic plan designed by the renowned Olmsted Bros. landscape architecture firm (1924) – but never executed –for a park and natural areas plan as a network of connected spaces in the county and beyond.

Weeks Bay Foundation (2009). The Weeks Bay Foundation was formed in 1990 to support the Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve in its efforts to protect the pristine coastal area of Baldwin County, Alabama.  The Foundation, with over 550 members, supports the Reserve through donations of land and educational exhibits, public awareness and education programs, water quality monitoring efforts, and volunteer programs.  The Weeks Bay Reserve encompasses 6,000 acres of land and water in and around Weeks Bay and along Mobile Bay.  The Foundation also pursues land acquisition activities in the Weeks Bay watershed.

California

Center for Natural Lands Management (2010). Founded in 1990, the Center for Natural Lands Management protects environmentally sensitive lands, through professional, science based stewardship of mitigation and conservation lands in perpetuity. It is presently managing more than 52,000 acres of conservation lands throughout California. This includes 72 separate projects, ranging from 1 acre to 21,000 acres, found in desert and coastal sand dunes, desert palm oases, coastal sage scrub, vernal pools, marshland, grassland and riparian forest habitats. These lands often are centered on biodiversity hotspots, which support a large number of species, including a high number of threatened and endangered species.

Central Valley Farmland Trust (2008). Central Valley Farmland Trust is a regionally based land trust in California working with landowners who want to conserve their farmland for future generations.  The organization has 2 full-time staff and works with landowners in Sacramento, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, and Merced Counties, and the 11-member board includes residents from each of the participating counties.  It currently holds 19 conservation easements.

Land Trust for Santa Barbara County (2009). Since 1985, the Land Trust for Santa Barbara County has worked to protect over 21,200 acres in Santa Barbara County. The land trust works to conserve important open space, wildlife habitat, farms and ranches, and has protected some of the county’s most beautiful areas. In addition to protected land, the organization shares their knowledge of land conservation strategies with local landowners, planners, public agencies and other conservation organizations, and educates the community through field trips with experts in ecology, agriculture and the arts.

Marin Agricultural Land Trust (2010). In 1980, a unique alliance of Marin ranchers and environmentalists united to fight coastal development proposals to preserve farmland in Marin County, California. The result of their alliance was the Marin Agricultural Land Trust, the first land trust in the United States to focus on farmland preservation. Today, it is a model for agricultural land preservation efforts across the nation. To date, MALT has permanently protected more than 41,800 acres of land on 66 family farms and ranches.

Nevada County Land Trust (2009). Nevada County Land Trust has responded to the growing demand for more open space and protected lands in Western Nevada County, California. The land trust promotes voluntary conservation of our natural, historical and agricultural resources, to create a balance between nature and the needs of the people who make a life and a livelihood here. Their mission is to enrich the deep community connection with our land — today, tomorrow, and forever. The land trust marked its official beginning as a chartered organization in 1992.

Northern California Regional Land Trust (2009). In its early years, NCRLT (formed in 1990) was a grassroots, local land trust that promoted cooperative preservation and enhancement of scenic, open space and significant habitat resources in Butte County. Now working in a 5,000-square-mile, multi-county region, it is implementing well-defined conservation programs that address priorities for irrigated farmland, grasslands and oak savannah used for ranching, “non-working” landscapes, land needing protection for mitigation purposes and forestland at the higher elevations. Cooperation not confrontation, is the byword of this regional land trust that has built strong ties with the community, private landowners, public agencies and other nonprofit groups.

Pacific Forest Trust (2010). Since 1993, the Pacific Forest Trust has been dedicated to sustaining America's private working forests and safeguarding their many public benefits. Since four out of every five forests in the contiguous 48 states are privately owned, their “retain, sustain, gain” model is more important than ever. They retain forest infrastructure by raising awareness of development threats and conserving critical forestlands; sustain forests by employing state-of-the-art forest stewardship practices, and also help both landowners and the public gain from working forests by developing and promoting forest ecosystem services. To date, they have conserved more than 50,000 acres of forestland in California, Oregon and Washington.

Peninsula Open Space Trust (2008). Peninsula Open Space Trust preserves the beauty, character and diversity of the San Francisco Peninsula and Santa Cruz Mountain Range in northern CA.  Since its founding in 1977, POST has been responsible for saving 60,000 acres as permanent open space and parkland in San mateo, Santa Clara and Santa Cruz counties.  It currently holds 28 fee properties and 27 conservation easements and deed restrictions.  It has 13 board members and 28 full-time and 4 part-time staff.

Placer Land Trust (2008). Placer Land Trust works with willing landowners to permanently preserve natural open spaces and agricultural lands in Placer County for future generations, and protects quality of life in the county through adaptive management and habitat restoration projects and by providing public benefit through parks and trails.  It holds 12 conservation easements and 10 fee properties and has assisted in the permanent preservation of 4 other projects.  It is governed by a 9-member board and has 4 full-time staff.

Sacramento Valley Conservancy (2009). Sacramento Valley Conservancy preserves the beauty, character and diversity of the Sacramento Valley landscape by working with citizens, property owners, developers, public agencies and other nonprofit organizations. The conservancy was established in 1990 on two basic principles: that open lands are necessary for quality of life and that we must care for the land today so future generations may enjoy its physical and spiritual benefits tomorrow. They take care of and monitor almost 10,000 acres of land, working hard to steward our special places for all to enjoy.

Tri-Valley Conservancy (2009). Tri-Valley Conservancy works to permanently protect the fertile soils, rangelands, open space and biological resources, and to support a viable agricultural economy, in the Tri Valley area. It was established in 1994 to preserve and protect important agricultural and open space lands in South Livermore Valley, a premiere wine region. The conservancy now protects over 4,100 acres of land and has expanded to cover the cities of Livermore, Pleasanton, Dublin, San Ramon and the Sunol area.

Wildlife Heritage Foundation (2009). Wildlife Heritage Foundation is dedicated to preserving California's rich heritage of open spaces, agricultural land and diverse wildlife. Founded in 2000, the organization welcomes land-conservation projects that protect wildlife habitat and educational programs that expand awareness of wildlife needs. WHF is committed to educating the public about conservation and creating and implementing educational projects on preserve sites. They also strive to work with homeowners' associations to provide information on maintaining preserved lands as well as creating awareness among homeowners of the value of open space.

Colorado

Aspen Valley Land Trust (2008). Aspen Valley Land Trust was originally formed in 1967 to create parks in the City of Aspen, and now operates as a full-service land trust focusing on conservation easements in the central mountains of western Colorado.  It is overseen by an 11-member board of directors and a 4-member staff.  It holds 150 easements and 13 fee properties on over 28,000 acres of ranchlands, spectacular mountain scenery and important wildlife habitat.

Black Canyon Land Trust (2010). In the early 1990s, two independent groups of Colorado residents each wanted to preserve the open space and ensure conservation of private lands in the Uncompahgre, North Fork, and Lower Gunnison watersheds. With a shared vision, they merged to form the Black Canyon Land Trust in 2000, and have protected over 32,000 acres of land. Its protected watersheds are home to a diverse array of wildlife and plant species, many of which are endangered. The land trust is also committed to helping farmers and ranchers preserve Colorado’s agricultural landscape, as well as its scenic beauty for tourists.

Colorado Cattlemen's Agricultural Land Trust (2009). Colorado Cattlemen's Agricultural Land Trust was the nation’s first land trust set up by an organization of mainstream livestock producers, partnering with landowners in the protection of more than 320,000 acres. CCALT holds more land in conservation than any other organization in Colorado, preserving more than 200 family ranches and farms. CCALT’s Board President Bill Fales notes, “Our success is not possible without the devotion of the ranching families that we have the honor of working with every day.”

Colorado Open Lands (2008). Colorado Open Lands' mission is to protect the significant open lands and diminishing natural heritage of Colorado through private and public partnerships,  innovative land conservation techniques, and strategic leadership.  Formed in 1981, it holds 208 conservation easements and 1 fee property.  It has an 11-member board and a 10-member staff.

Eagle Valley Land Trust (2008). Eagle Valley Land Trust, formed in 1981, protects the vistas, open spaces, historic lands, waterways and wildlife corridors that characterize the valley of the Eagle River, which flows through small, rural communities down the western slope of the Rocky Mountains to its confluence with the Colorado River.  It is governed by a board of 14, has 3 full-time staff and holds 18 conservation easements.

Estes Valley Land Trust (2008). Estes Valley Land Trust was incorporated in 1987 to preserve and protect the open space, valleys, wetlands, streams, ranch lands, and wildlife habitat in the Estes Valley and the surrounding area.  During its first 20 years, the land trust operated as an all-volunteer organization.  It now has 1 part-time staff member and a board of 12.  It holds 138 conservation easements and 1 fee property.

La Plata Open Space Conservancy (2010). “They aren’t making land anymore,” goes the motto of La Plata Open Space Conservancy. Their mission to save open lands that have significant agricultural, wildlife habitat, recreational and historical resources is rooted deeply in their strong sense of place and enduring feeling of attachment to things as they are in Durango and the rest of Southwest Colorado. The land trust has saved thousands of acres that otherwise would have been lost forever.

Mesa Land Trust (2009). A small group of dedicated farmers founded Mesa Land Trust in 1980 to address their concerns over increasing development pressures on the Western Slope in Mesa County, CO. Today, Mesa Land Trust is responsible for conserving over 50,000 acres of land – important agricultural areas that include orchards, vineyard, cropland and grazing land, and large working ranches. Many properties provide important habitat for deer, elk and the Gunnison Sage Grouse as well as other species.

Montezuma Land Conservancy (2010). Montezuma Land Conservancy is the only organization focused solely on private land conservation in Montezuma and Dolores counties in southwestern Colorado. In 1998, the land trust was established by a group of local citizens concerned about the rapid loss of local agricultural lands and open space. Since then, it has helped 50 local families permanently protect more than 17,358 acres of irrigated farm and ranch land, dry land farms, river valleys, wetlands, wildlife habitat, desert canyons and sagebrush.

Rio Grande Headwaters Land Trust (2010). Since 1999, the Rio Grande Headwaters Land Trust, the only local land trust serving the entire San Luis Valley, has worked to conserve the land, water and way of life in Colorado's Rio Grande Basin. To date, the land trust completed 22 conservation projects preserving 16,107 acres of land. In 2006, RiGHT began the Rio Grande Initiative to preserve the breath-taking views from the winding “Silver Thread Scenic Byway.” It has completed 11 conservation easement projects along the river corridor permanently protecting over twelve miles of river and 6,814 acres of wetlands, wildlife habitat, open space, and productive ranchland.

San Isabel Land Protection Trust (2009). San Isabel Land Protection Trust protects ranch, farm and forest lands, wildlife habitat, scenic views for public enjoyment, and historic resources. The land trust believes in preserving their rural community’s quality of life and its natural and historical heritage, while supporting responsible development. The organization works in an area encompassing 2 million acres including the Wet Mountain Valley and surrounding San Isabel Region of south-central Colorado. Since 1995, they have worked with private landowners protecting nearly 32,000 acres of productive working land, scenic open space and important wildlife habitat.

Wilderness Land Trust (2008). Wilderness Land Trust, founded in 1992, works across the nation.  It is devoted exclusively to purchasing privately-owned parcels of land within existing and proposed wilderness areas.  To date, it has acquired approximately 24,500 acres in 68 wilderness areas, all for transfer to public ownership.  It is governed by a board of 8 and has 4 full-time staff.

Connecticut

Kent Land Trust (2010). In 1989, a small group of Kent residents, concerned about the increasing threats to their community’s rural way of life, gathered in a Skiff Mountain living room. Out of that gathering grew Citizens For Controlled Growth (CCG), and its executive committee formed the Kent Land Trust to ensure the land and water resources, plant life, and unique scenic, natural and historic sites of Kent would be permanently protected.

Salem Land Trust (2009). Founded in 1996, Salem Land Trust is dedicated to conserving the natural resources of the Salem area to preserve its beauty, rural character and natural diversity for future generations. These resources include water courses, swamps, meadows, and woodlands, the plant and animal life therein, as well as scenic, natural and historic sites. The land trust is also a member of the Coordinating Committee of the Eightmile River Watershed project, a cooperative effort to oversee the long-term protection of the watershed – over 150 miles of pristine rivers and streams flowing through relatively undeveloped rural land.

Florida

Alachua Conservation Trust (2010). Since 1988, the Alachua Conservation Trust has worked with landowners to protect our great places. The AC T is dedicated to protecting the natural, historic, scenic and recreational resources in and around Alachua County, Florida. ACT protects land through purchase, donation, and conservation easements. They have facilitated approximately 14,000 acres of public land purchases and private conservation easements, including the negotiations of dozens of purchase agreements on thousands of acres of land that are now part of public park systems.

Tall Timbers Research Station & Land Conservancy (2009). Research, conservation and education are the three pillars on which Tall Timbers rests its half-century-old mission of fostering exemplary land stewardship.  When Tall Timbers celebrated its “golden” anniversary in 2008, the Land Conservancy also reached a milestone – exceeding over 108,000 acres of land protected in southwest Georgia and north Florida through donated conservation easements. A particular achievement in 2007 was “closing” on 23 projects conserving more than 30,000 acres of land, tripling its typical year workload and results.

Georgia

Athens Land Trust (2008). Athens Land Trust was founded in 1994 with the dual goals of land conservation and permanently affordable housing.  It promotes quality of life through integration of the community and the natural environment by preserving land, creating energy-efficient and affordable housing, and revitalizing neighborhoods.  It holds 16 conservation easements protecting 585 acres of forest, working farmland, riparian areas, wildlife habitat, and public open spaces.

Central Savannah River Land Trust (2009). The Central Savannah River Land Trust is committed to safeguarding the forests, wetlands, and open spaces that define their region's character. Their mission is to preserve these areas of natural beauty today, and leave a legacy of environmental stewardship that lasts for generations. The land trust aims to protect the streams and wetlands that feed the central-portion of the Savannah River. They also partner with local governments on their greenspace programs and have received recognition as a model for greenspace programs around the state for their partnership with Richmond County.

Mountain Conservation Trust of Georgia (2008). The Mountain Conservation Trust of Georgia is dedicated to the permanent conservation of the natural resources and scenic beauty of the mountains and foothills of North Georgia through land protection, collaborative partnerships and education. Since 1991, the land trust has diligently worked to protect these mountains from the advancing growth of metropolitan Atlanta and the proliferation of second home developments in the verdant Southern Appalachian region. Over 1,000 acres in northeast Pickens County have already been purchased or protected with permanent conservation easements.

Oconee River Land Trust (2009). Oconee River Land Trust conserves natural lands to protect water quality, preserve wildlife habitat, and enhance the quality of our lives and those of future generations. Formed in 1993 to aid the effort to create a greenway along the Oconee River in Athens, the land trust now protects 1,368 acres of natural landscape in seven North East Georgia counties. The land trust is committed to preserving many different types of land including forests, river and stream corridors, wetlands, wildlife habitat, productive farms and timberland, historic sites and scenic views.

Hawaii

Maui Coastal Land Trust (2009). The Maui Coastal Land Trust, founded in 2001, is protecting the coastal treasures of Maui -- renowned as culturally significant lands.  Maui Coastal Land Trust owns and manages the Waihe‘e Coastal Dunes and Wetlands Refuge, a 277-acre site undergoing restoration as an environmental, cultural, and educational resource. The land trust has worked with conservation-minded landowners to protect nearly 4,000 acres of coastal lands.

Idaho

Teton Regional Land Trust (2009). Teton Regional Land Trust was created in 1990 by a group of citizens concerned about the rapid loss of open lands in Teton Valley, Idaho. The land trust has expanding to currently serve a six-county region, which contains some of the most resource-rich private land habitats in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and is experiencing some of the highest growth rates in the nation. They have helped protect 25,477 acres in the Upper Snake River Watershed.

Illinois

Lake Forest Open Lands Association (2009). What began in the 1960’s  as a volunteer effort by a group of residents on the Green Bay Road, is now 700 acres of permanently protected open space – all open to the public – including woodlands, wetlands and several rare and globally significant prairies, ravines and savannas. Open Lands restored these properties to their native condition, with many benefits:  habitat for native plants and uncommon animals such as the Eastern Bluebird and the Great Egret, and miles of nature trails for casual walking, nature hikes and cross-country skiing.

Maine

Coastal Mountains Land Trust (2008). Coastal Mountains Land Trust, founded in 1986, is dedicated to conserving lands that significantly benefit the public by protecting the natural, scenic, and outdoor recreation assets of the western Penobscot Bay region. The land trust programs are currently governed by a board of 17, implemented by a staff of 6, and have protected 6,686 acres - 47 conservation easements and 60 fee properties.

Forest Society of Maine (2009). The Forest Society of Maine (FSM) operates throughout the state to sustain the ecological, economic, cultural, and recreational values of Maine’s forests, particularly focused on protecting and conserving large tracts of Maine’s North Woods. FSM has helped to pioneer landscape-scale forestland conservation through the development and implementation of large-scale working forest conservation easements. Since the organization’s inception in 1984, FSM-led projects have conserved more than 400,000 acres and helped to conserve an additional 400,000 acres by assisting other organizations.

Maine Coast Heritage Trust (2010). Founded in 1970, the Maine Coast Heritage Trust was a pioneer in the use of conservation easements as a way to protect land and a founding organizational member of the Land Trust Alliance— then called the Land Trust Exchange.  Since that time, they have worked to protect more than 130,000 acres in Maine, including more than 275 entire coastal islands. Maine’s coast is home to a wide variety of landscapes including rugged islands, salt marshes rich with wildlife and white sand beaches. MCHT is committed to voluntary land conservation, embraces the highest ethical standards and strives to instill a conservation ethic in others by connecting people to the land.

Maryland

Potomac Conservancy (2010). The Potomac Conservancy was formed in 1993 by individuals concerned about inappropriate development and clear cutting that were beginning to have a negative impact on the unspoiled character of the Potomac Gorge. The Conservancy protects the health, beauty and enjoyment of the Potomac River and its tributaries. Its primary focus is the protection of water quality through land protection and sound land use practices, but clean water alone is not enough. The Conservancy also works to preserve and restore the Potomac's scenic landscapes, and to enhance river-based recreational opportunities.

Massachusetts

Boxford Trails Association/Boxford Open Land Trust (2008). Boxford Trails Association/Boxford Open Land Trust is a volunteer organization dedicated to preserving and protecting natural and aesthetically important land and wildlife habitat, including fields, wetlands, and trails, to preserve the nature of the town of Boxford, Massachusetts.  Founded in 1978, it holds 8 conservation easements and 15  fee properties and is governed by a board of 15.

Northeast Wilderness Trust (2009). Northeast Wilderness Trust is the only regional land trust focused exclusively on restoring & protecting wilderness, working with partners to restore and preserve forever-wild landscapes.  The organization bases its land protection priorities on conservation science, wilderness potential, community vision, threat abatement, and opportunity.  They work in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, Massachusetts and Connecticut.

Sippican Lands Trust (2008). Sippican Lands Trust preserves open space for the benefit of residents of, and visitors to, the Town of Marion.  the goal of the Trust is to protect wildlife, ecosystems and natural resources as well as the history, heritage and beauty of the area.  Founded in 1986, it holds 8 conservation easements and 37 fee properties.  It has an 18-member board and 1 full-time and 2 part-time staff.

Michigan

Chikaming Open Lands (2008). Chikaming Open Lands preserves the natural, scenic, and agricultural lands of southwest Berrien County.  It also seeks to foster an appreciation of the local environment through education and through the involvement of the community in the issues and techniques of land preservation and habitat restoration.  It holds 16 conservation easements and 2 fee properties.  It is governed by a board of 11 and has 2 full-time staff.

Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy (2009). Since 1991, Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy has worked diligently to protect the important and significant landscapes that make Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska and Manistee counties special. The organization focuses their land conservation efforts to permanently protect crucial wildlife habitat and corridors; critical watersheds that protect the water quality of our region; unique high-quality farm lands; valuable forestland; and ecologically significant dunes along Lake Michigan. The conservancy has protected over 31,000 acres of irreplaceable natural, scenic and farm lands and over 90 miles of shoreline along our rivers, lakes and streams.

Leelanau Conservancy (2008). Leelanau Conservancy has worked since 1988 to protect the land, water and scenic character that makes the Leelanau Peninsula so unique: outstanding views, sensitive wetlands, hardwood forests, Lake Michigan shoreline and working farms. It holds 118 conservation easements and 22 fee properties.  It has a 21-member board and 10 full-time and 1 part-time staff.

Legacy Land Conservancy (2008). Legacy Land Conservancy protects natural areas and working farms in southern Michigan (Washtenaw, Jackson, and Ingham counties). Established in 1971, it holds 46 conservation easements and 5 fee properties. It is governed by a 15-member board and has 3 full-time and 1 part-time staff.

Little Forks Conservancy (2010). Since 1996, Little Forks Conservancy has partnered with private landowners in or near the Tittabawassee River Watershed to protect and preserve the unique natural features of this region. The resources of the Tittabawassee River Watershed are immensely rich and diverse. Its forests, farm fields, marshland and, of course, rivers all provide benefits to the community. The Conservancy works to protect waterways in order to reduce erosion, preserve scenic views and preserve and improve water quality, and preserve areas that provide wildlife habitat to ensure the Midland, Michigan community always receives these benefits.

Minnesota

Minnesota Land Trust (2008). Minnesota Land Trust preserves Minnesota's natural and scenic heritage by permanently protecting lands and waters that define local communities and enrich quality of life.  Incorporated in 1991, it holds more than 370 conservation easements protecting over 33,000 acres of land and 670,000 feet of shoreline.  It is governed by a 16-member board, has 9 full-time and 4 part-time staff, and relies on the service of more than 90 volunteers.

Mississippi

Land Trust for the Mississippi Coastal Plain (2009). A patchwork of diverse habitats and histories, the Mississippi Coastal Plain contains rich, irreplaceable plant and animal communities – tidal and freshwater rivers, oxbows, tidal and freshwater marshes, pine savannas and flatwoods, upland pine forests, and bayhead forests and swamps. The Land Trust for the Mississippi Coastal Plain works in six coastal counties to protect these green places of ecological, cultural and scenic significance. These ecosystems are interdependent and play essential roles in the quality of life in South Mississippi. Founded in 2000, the land trust has one full-time staff.

Montana

Five Valleys Land Trust (2008). Five Valleys Land Trust works to protect and preserve land in 8 counties in western Montana.  This land is primarily rural, with working lands in agriculture and forestry.  It holds 97 conservation easements.  It is governed by an 18-member board and has 7 full-time and 2 part-time staff.

Gallatin Valley Land Trust (2008). Gallatin Valley Land Trust is dedicated to the conservation of open space, agricultural land, wildlife habitat, and the creation of public trails in a 6-county area in southwestern Montana.  Since 1990, the land trust has acquired 70 conservation easements and 1 fee property.  It is governed by an 11-member board and has 4 full-time and 4 part-time staff.

Montana Land Reliance (2010). Since 1978, the Montana Land Reliance has worked with 715 private land owners across the state to make their conservation goals a reality. The land trust provides permanent protection to its western agricultural heritage, landscapes surrounding Glacier and Yellowstone national parks, watersheds and a diversity of wildlife in numbers unimaginable anywhere else in the lower 48 states. The MLR's conservation easements protect 810,031 acres of ecologically, agriculturally, and historically important land, along with 1,408 miles of stream bank.

New Hampshire

Ausbon Sargent Land Preservation Trust (2009). The Ausbon Sargent Land Preservation Trust preserves the rural landscape of the Mt. Kearsarge/Lake Sunapee region by working with local governments and landowners. The organization’s goal is to protect lands that make their region a special place to live. Established in 1987 to protect open space in New London, the organization has grown to serve 12 towns in the region. The land trust has protected over 6,000 acres to date.

Monadnock Conservancy (2008). Monadnock Conservancy, founded in 1989, serves 35 towns in the Monadnock Region of southwestern New Hampshire.  This rich and diverse landscape includes two major watersheds, the highest mountains in southern New Hampshire, extensive working forests and farms, and miles of public recreational trails.  The land trust holds 139 conservation easements and 5 fee properties on more than 11,000 acres.  It employs 6 full-time and 2 part-time staff and is governed by a 15-member board of trustees.

New Jersey

The Land Conservancy of New Jersey (2009). Since 1981, the Land Conservancy of New Jersey has evolved from an all volunteer organization to a state leader in land preservation. Their organization preserves land and water resources, conserves open space, and inspires and empowers individuals and communities to protect our natural land and environment. The conservancy has preserved over 15,000 acres and helped towns secure more than $180 million in county, state, and federal grants for their land conservation projects, and has worked with 76 municipalities in 13 counties, benefiting millions of residents throughout the state.

New York

Dutchess Land Conservancy (2009). Dedicated to preserving rural character and open lands, the Dutchess Land Conservancy fosters sound, well-planned development, while ensuring the conservation of natural resources for today’s families and future generations. In addition, the conservancy offers technical land-planning assistance; educates the public on land conservation; and works with government organizations to encourage environmentally sound planning. The conservancy has preserved over 27,000 acres of land since 1985.

Hudson Highlands Land Trust (2008). Hudson Highlands Land Trust protects the natural resources, rural character and scenic beauty of the Highlands region of New York State's Hudson River Valley through land conservation, public advocacy, community outreach, and the promotion of sound long-term planning.  Founded in 1989, it holds 65 conservation easements and 2 fee properties.  It has 3 full-time staff members and a board of 30.

Mianus River Gorge Preserve (2010). Less than forty miles from Manhattan, the Mianus River Gorge Preserve remains an oasis of rich woodland and old-growth forest one hour's drive from New York City. In 1953, the Preserve was established to protect an old-growth hemlock forest. It received the special designation as the first Nature Conservancy land project and the first National Natural History Landmark designated by the U.S. Department of the Interior. Today, the Preserve protects over 750 acres of land and a water supply for over 150,000 people in Connecticut and New York

Open Space Conservancy (Land Acquisition Affiliate of Open Space Institute) (2008). Open Space Conservancy (Land Acquisition Affiliate of Open Space Institute) is a supporting organization of the Open Space Institute.  Founded in 1980, it holds 247 conservation easements and 70 fee properties.  Through its New York Land Protection Program it acquires fee titles and easements in the Hudson River Valley.  Through its Conservation Finance Program it provides low-cost bridge loans and grants for land acquisition projects in the Eastern U.S.  It is governed by an 18-member board and has 27 full-time and 3 part-time staff.

Rensselaer Land Trust (2008). Rensselaer Land Trust preserves the land and protects the natural resources of Rensselaer County, NY in particular the conservation of waterseds and wetlands through strategic partnerships, public education, conservation easements and fee ownership with the support of private donations.  Formed in 1987, it currently holds 12 conservation easements and has acquired 6 properties in fee ownership.  It is governed by a board of 13 and has 2 part-time staff.

Scenic Hudson, Inc. & Scenic Hudson Land Trust (2008). Scenic Hudson, Inc. and Scenic Hudson Land Trust protect and restore New York's Hudson River and its landscape as a national treasure and a vital resource for residents and visitors.  Scenic Hudson, founded in 1975, is the governing authority and sole member of The Scenic Hudson Land Trust.  These groups hold 90 conservation easements and 30 fee properties.  They are governed by a 14-member board and have 49 full-time and 2 part-time staff.

Thousand Islands Land Trust (2009). Thousand Islands Land Trust works to conserve the natural beauty, wildlife habitats and recreational opportunities of the Thousand Islands region.  The region includes the islands in and the shoreline along the St. Lawrence River between Cape Vincent, NY and Masena NY/Cornwall, Ontario where the river passes entirely into Canada.  The river drains the Great Lakes Basin, and thus, is a critical part of the largest supply of fresh water on the planet.

Westchester Land Trust (2008). Westchester Land Trust is located in Westchester County, directly north of New York City and bordered by the Hudson River, Long Island Sound and Connecticut.  It holds 160 conservation easements and 26 fee properties, and has worked with the state, county, and local governments to protect an additional 13 properties.  In all it has protected 5,700 acres.  Formed in 1988, it has a 23-member board along with 10 full-time and 2 part-time staff.

North Carolina

Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy (2008). Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy has, since 1994, worked cooperatively with landowners to permanently protect land in Henderson, Transylvania, and neighboring counties.  It holds 64 conservation easements and 12 fee properties.  It has a 19-member board, with 10 staff and 4 AmeriCorps Project Conserve Members.

Catawba Lands Conservancy (2009). A regional land trust, Catawba Lands Conservancy permanently protects land, water and wildlife habitat in North Carolina's Southern Piedmont and Lower Catawba River Basin. It has permanently protected some 7,568 acres – one of 24 land trusts serving North Carolina that collectively hold and protect more than 286,000 acres. The conservancy has the lead role for the Carolina Thread Trail, an environmental initiative to link more than 2 million citizens with hundreds of miles of trails through 15 counties in North and South Carolina.

Conservation Trust for North Carolina (2010). The Conservation Trust for North Carolina protects the state’s land and water through direct conservation and cooperative work with 24 local and regional land trusts across the state. It is dedicated to the prevention of poorly planned development from swallowing up critical natural areas and undercutting an economy that depends on farming and tourism – North Carolina’s top two industries. The land trust has worked directly to protect natural areas along the Blue Ridge Parkway, conserving 30,000 acres to date of spectacular vistas that make this scenic road the most-visited unit of the National Park Service.

Eno River Association (2010). Since 1966, the Eno River Association has worked actively to protect the lands and waters along the Eno River and its tributaries. Their efforts to date have resulted in more than 5,700 acres of protected lands. These acres are largely contained within five public parks: the Eno River State Park, the Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area, West Point on the Eno Durham City Park, Penny’s Bend Nature Preserve and the Little River Regional Park. Each year more than 30,000 people visit the banks of the river for the Festival for the Eno, now in its third decade, to celebrate the Association’s conservation success and raise money toward protection of future lands.

Land Trust for the Little Tennessee (2010). Nestled within some of the oldest mountains on earth, the upper Little Tennessee River basin, and surrounding mountain ranges, possess a unique - yet threatened - natural and cultural heritage. Land Trust for the Little Tennessee is dedicated to conserving the waters, forests, farms and heritage of the Upper Little Tennessee and Hiwassee River Valleys to insure that the natural beauty, ecological integrity, and rural character of the region are preserved for generations to come. As of September 2009, the land trust protected 3,564 acres through conservation easements and another 1,278 acres through acquisition.

Piedmont Land Conservancy (2010). In 1989, Piedmont Land Conservancy began as an idea when several long-time residents met around a dining room table to discuss how to make a difference by conserving the Piedmont’s most precious natural assets forever. A year later, Piedmont Land Conservancy was founded, and since then it has preserved natural and scenic lands, farms and open spaces in Piedmont North Carolina – lands that enrich the quality of life for their communities and for future generations. To date, PLC has permanently protected more than 138 of the Piedmont’s special places, encompassing nearly 16,000 acres.

Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy (2010). The Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy is one of the country’s oldest land trusts, working to protect the world’s oldest mountains. Since 1974, it has worked to conserve the unique plant and animal habitat, clean water, local farmland and scenic beauty of the mountains of North Carolina and eastern Tennessee for the benefit of present and future generations. The Conservancy has helped ensure the protection of more than 40,000 acres throughout the mountain region.

Ohio

Tecumseh Land Trust (2009). Tecumseh Land Trust preserves agricultural land, open space, and historic structures in Greene and Clark Counties in Ohio. In addition to working with landowners and their heirs, the land trust works with local government and helps to educate the public about methods of private land conservation. Tecumseh Land Trust has protected more than 13,000 acres of agricultural and natural land since being founded in 1990.

Oregon

Deschutes Land Trust (2009). Founded in 1995, Deschutes Land Trust works throughout Central Oregon to conserve land for wildlife, scenic views and local communities. Working with local landowners, the Deschutes has conserved more than 7,200 acres in the region.  “Land-use regulations can always change, but Land Trust’s conservation projects are permanent....With national accreditation, we have the additional assurance that the Deschutes Land Trust has taken the necessary steps to serve the community for generations to come,” states executive director Brad Chalfant.

Greenbelt Land Trust (2008). Greenbelt Land Trust works to conserve and protect in perpetuity native habitats, working lands and lands of natural beauty, which provide a connection to the natural world for the residents of the Mid-Willamette Valley.  It also works on open space planning, stewardship of lands and the planning, construction and maintenance of trails.  It holds 10 conservation easements and 2 fee properties.  It has 3 full-time staff, 1 part-time staff and a board of 11.

McKenzie River Trust (2010). Oregonians have long cared about land and water; the natural systems that sustain us with clean drinking water, rich soils to grow food and provide habitat for the species that live in the McKenzie and Willamette Basins. Since 1989, the McKenzie River Trust has been the only community-based land trust working with landowners in Lane and Douglas counties. Over the last three and a half years the Trust has successfully raised over $3.4 million to purchase 1,040 acres in the McKenzie basin. In its 20-year history, it has forever-protected over 2,250 acres of land.

Pennsylvania

Bedminster Regional Land Conservancy (2008). Bedminster Regional Land Conservancy is committed to the protection and preservation of the agricultural heritage and rural lifestyle that still characterizes Bedminster Township and neighboring communities in upper Bucks County, Pennsylvania.  It currently holds 82 conservation easements, is governed by a board of 9 and has 1 part-time staff.

Brandywine Conservancy (2008). Brandywine Conservancy was founded in 1967 with a focus on the watershed of the Brandywine River that flows through southeastern Pennsylvania and northern Delaware.  Its Environmental Management Center preserves the natural, cultural and agricultural resources of the area through its municipal assistance and land stewardship programs.  It is overseen by a board of 27 and a staff of 25.  It holds over 400 conservation easements and 39 fee properties and has preserved more than 40,000 acres.

Countryside Conservancy (2008). Countryside Conservancy, founded in 1994, conserves lands and waters in and around the Tunkhannock Creek Watershed.  The Conservancy holds 16 conservation easements, owns and manages 11 fee properties for the public benefit, supports watershed conservation efforts and is working to create a recreational non-motorized walking trail in the region.  It has a 21-member board, 2 full-time staff and 4 part-time staff.

Heritage Conservancy (2008). Heritage Conservancy, founded in 1958, promotes open space preservation, natural resource protection, property stewardship, historic preservation, adaptive reuse of existing structures, wildlife habitat restoration, and biodiversity in the Bucks County and Delaware River region of Pennsylvania.  It holds 83 conservation easements and 59 fee properties.  It is governed by a 21-member board and has 24 full-time and 4 part-time staff.

Lancaster County Conservancy (2009). The Lancaster County Conservancy is dedicated to saving and stewarding the ecosystems and landscapes upon which we depend for food, clean water and air, economic and public health, and the restoration of soul and spirit. The conservancy also recognizes the importance of creating partnerships, and their local community. The organization was founded in 1969 and has conserved almost 3,500 acres, including owning and managing 25 nature preserves throughout Lancaster County that are open to the public for recreation.

Lancaster Farmland Trust (2009). With some of the world’s richest and most productive lands, Lancaster County (PA) is a leading agricultural breadbasket that supports more than 51,000 jobs and contributes more than $4 billion to the local economy each year. Lancaster Farmland Trust plays a major role in protecting this rich heritage from inappropriate development – with over 20,000 acres protected by conservation easements.

Natural Lands Trust (2009). Natural Lands Trust preserves and cares for natural lands in eastern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey. Since 1953, they have worked to protect landscapes in the region by preserving and caring for natural lands, healthy habitats and clean watersheds for the benefit of native plants, wildlife, and current and future generations. The land trust owns and manages 42 nature preserves, totaling over 20,000 acres, and holds conservation easements and other restrictions on more than 18,000 acres.

North Branch Land Trust (2008). North Branch Land Trust focuses its conservation work on the watersheds and other lands that frame the North Branch of the Susquehanna River in Pennsylvania.  It holds 38 conservation easements and 3 fee properties.  Formed in 1994, it is governed by a 15-member board and staffed by 2 full-time staff members.

Tinicum Conservancy (2009). Tinicum Conservancy, located in bucolic Upper Bucks County, Pennsylvania, is dedicated to protecting its rural character and natural resources through community-based land conservation, providing stewardship for almost 3,700 acres of land. The conservancy works to preserve open space, natural resources and scenic features; and to establish and support environmental and historical preservation programs in Tinicum Township. In addition to holding conservation easements on preserved land, the conservancy sponsors numerous educational programs.

Willistown Conservation Trust (2008). Willistown Conservation Trust, founded in 1996, works in approximately 20,000 acres in the Willistown, PA area with emphasis on the watersheds of the Crum, Ridley and Darby creeks.  It holds 59 conservation easements and 4 fee properties.  It is governed by a board of 16 and has 7 full-time and 5 part-time staff.

Rhode Island

Aquidneck Land Trust (2009). Aquidneck Land Trust was founded in 1990 by a dedicated group of local residents to save the natural character, environmental health and economic value of Aquidneck Island. The organization has conserved over 2,000 acres of local agriculture, wildlife habitats, water resources, outdoor recreation areas and scenic vistas – an impressive feat considering the price of real estate and intense development pressures on the island. Important wildlife habitats the land trust helps protect support threatened or endangered species such as the Northern Harrier, Piping Plover, Northern Leopard Frog and Barn Owl. Photo by John T. Hopf.

South Carolina

Edisto Island Open Land Trust (2009). Edisto Island Open Land Trust preserves and protects lands, scenic vistas, heritage, and conservation resources of Edisto Island for future generations. A beautiful island off the coast of South Carolina, it offers visitors and residents a rich vista of bald cypress swamps, coastal wetlands and historic oak-lined drives, sometimes leading to old-time plantations. The land trust helps preserve historic properties with fascinating pasts, along with fields, woods, salt marshes and other habitats critical to the diversity of island life.

Upstate Forever (2008). Upstate Forever promotes sensible growth and the protection of special places in the Upstate region of South Carolina.  Founded in 1998, it covers 9 counties and has 3 main programs:  Land Trust, Sustainable Communities, and Clean Air and Water.  It holds 39 conservation easements and is governed by a 14-member board.  It has 8 full-time and 7 part-time staff.

South Dakota

Northern Prairies Land Trust (2009). Northern Prairies Land Trust was established in 1999 by a group of individuals dedicated to preserving the wonderful and unique ecosystems of the northern prairies of Nebraska and South Dakota. The land trust protects private lands that are significant for agriculture; ranching; water resource preservation and enhancement; fish, plant and wildlife habitat; cultural and historical protection; and open space. By conserving this land they aim to perpetuate a lifestyle and an economy that rely on responsibly managed land and the increasingly valuable prairie spaces that nourish the spirit of future generations.

Tennessee

Land Trust for Tennessee (2009). The Land Trust for Tennessee works with communities and individuals to preserve the unique character of Tennessee's natural and historic landscapes and sites for future generations. The very reason many people live in Tennessee – its rich history, green rolling hills, scenic landscapes, open farmland and rural back roads – has caused rapid growth in the region, areas which must now be actively preserved or these unique characteristics will be lost.

Tennessee Parks and Greenways Foundation (2010). Established in 1998, as the result of a merger between the Tennessee State Parks Foundation and the Tennessee Greenways Program of The Conservation Fund, the Tennessee Parks and Greenways Foundation preserves land in one of the top ten richest states in America for biological diversity. Its vision is to conserve Tennessee’s treasures by creating a network of parks, greenways, and wildlife areas to protect the state’s native plant and animal life, which has more than 4,000 species.

Texas

Guadalupe-Blanco River Trust (2010). Amazingly, in Texas where land is so plentiful, they are losing their open land more rapidly than any other state. Since 2001, the Guadalupe-Blanco River Trust has promoted and encouraged the conservation, stewardship and enjoyment of the land and water resources of the Guadalupe River Watershed for its natural, recreational, scenic, historic and productive value. The river is one of the most pristine rivers in Texas, and one of the most biologically diverse rivers in the U.S.

Vermont

Greensboro Land Trust (2009). A collaborative partnership of residents and seasonal dwellers in Greensboro, VT , GLT is working to ensure that, as Vermont steadily changes, it can preserve the town's rural character, as well as protect farms, forestland and wildlife habitat. GLT helps farm families conserve productive agricultural land for future generations – key to the state’s economic future and preserving heritage. Forestland protection supports a healthy wood products industry and sustains habitat critical for black bear, moose, deer, songbirds and other wildlife. Other lands permanently protected by GLT include irreplaceable fields, woods, and shoreline essential for recreation and scenic enjoyment.

Lake Champlain Land Trust (2008). Lake Champlain Land Trust works to save the scenic beauty, natural communities, and recreational opportunities of Lake Champlain by permanently preserving significant islands, shoreline areas, and natural communities in the Champlain Basin of Vermont and New York.  Founded in 1978, it holds 35 conservation easements and 3 fee properties.  It is goverened by an 11-member board and has 2 full-time staff.

Stowe Land Trust (2010). Since 1987, Stowe Land Trust has worked to protect forest and field, waterways and view sheds, embodying its goal to protect the variety of landscapes that play a critical role in the economic, recreational and natural health of the greater Stowe community. Steeped in the traditional land-use patterns of rural New England, Stowe’s patchwork of farm and forest reflect the profound integration of our working landscape with everyday life.   Since its creation, Stowe Land Trust has conserved over 3,200 acres by completing 28 conservation projects with landowners who wish to protect their land in perpetuity. In addition to its privately conserved lands, SLT owns and manages five unique properties.

Virginia

Land Trust of Virginia (2009). To keep Virginia’s natural heritage—rolling countryside, rich farmlands, deep forests and teeming wetlands— from vanishing, the Land Trust of Virginia helps local landowners voluntarily limit development through conservation easements on thousands of acres. LTV seeks to preserve the best of scenic and historic landscapes, and works statewide with governmental and nonprofit partners on protecting Appalachian Trail buffer, habitat corridors, and scenic waterways.

Northern Virginia Conservation Trust (2008). Northern Virginia Conservation Trust saves nearby nature by helping local governments and private landowners voluntarily preserve natural areas, trails, streams and parks in Northern Virginia near Washington, D.C.  It holds 89 conservation easements and owns 16 fee properties.  It is governed by a board of 13 and has 5 full-time staff.

Washington

Cascade Land Conservancy (2008). Cascade Land Conservancy is an independent land conservation and stewardship organization in Washington State.  Since 1989, it has led the conservation of over 150,000 acres ranging broadly from small city parks to significant working landscapes.  It holds 40 conservation easements and 33 fee properties and has 41 full-time staff and a board of 32.

Jefferson Land Trust (2009). The Jefferson Land Trust helps the community preserve open space, working lands and habitat in Jefferson County on the beautiful Olympic Peninsula of Washington State. Founded in 1989, the land trust also works with local residents, governments, agencies and community groups on numerous collaborative projects. These projects include the Quimper Wildlife Corridor, a greenbelt of wetlands; Chimacum, Salmon and Snow Creeks, salmon habitat protection; and the Food Farm Network, promoting local sustainable agriculture.

Skagit Land Trust (2009). Skagit Land Trust protects wildlife habitat, wetlands, agriculture and forest lands, scenic open space and shorelines throughout the mainland and islands of Skagit County in Northwestern Washington. Founded in March 1992, the land trust protects land for the benefit of our community and as a legacy for future generations. The land trust has quadrupled the amount of protected land and habitat in the past five years to more than 4,500 acres, including over 18 miles of shoreline.

Wisconsin

Kinnickinnic River Land Trust (2009). The Kinnickinnic River Land Trust is dedicated to working with the community to protect the natural resources and scenic beauty of the Kinnickinnic River watershed in Wisconsin, including clean water, wildlife, recreation, natural areas, wild trout, scenic beauty, and family farms. Since the land trust was founded in 1993, the organization has protected over 2,000 acres of critical lands and over 8 miles of river frontage fully protected and available for public access.

Wyoming

Wyoming Land Trust (2008). Wyoming Land Trust assists landowning families in the conservation of agricultural, ranch and natural lands in Sublette County, Wyoming.  Formed in 2000, it has worked with more than 40 families to conserve nearly 24,000 acres of land.  A board of 9 oversees the organization's strategic direction, as carried out by its 4 full-time and 2 part-time staff members.

Jackson Hole Land Trust (2009). Jackson Hole Land Trust was established in 1980.  The land trust works to preserve open space and the scenic, ranching and wildlife values of Jackson Hole by assisting landowners who wish to protect their land in perpetuity.  Jackson Hole is an integral part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, an area first recognized for its conservation importance in 1872 with the formation of Yellowstone National Park, and again in 1950 with the expansion of Grand Teton National Park to its present-day boundaries.