How one video can benefit a community
iBen Dodd, an avid outdoorsman and angler, recently scored a monumental win for Eagle County, the state of Colorado and the accredited Eagle Valley Land Trust. And that win is yielding some great results for our community!
Working with EVLT and Capture the Action Productions, Ben produced a video to show the value of our local landscape, natural resources and cultural heritage. His masterpiece, entered in this year's #LandIsMy contest from the Land Trust Alliance, took first place thanks to Ben's team and those who voted for the video. We are thrilled for Ben's success and honored to receive the $10,000 grand prize!
The prize money will be used to fund the transition of our stewardship and outreach manager position, staffed by Jessica Foulis, from part-time to full-time beginning in 2018. Through this position, EVLT will be able to provide additional resources and support to landowners engaged in conservation on their land. EVLT monitors easement properties annually to ensure the public benefits and ecosystem value created by each agreement are maintained. Further, EVLT provides a monthly hiking series and youth programming in collaboration with other organizations and nonprofits. These programs provide environmental education and outdoor experiences centered around land conservation themes. With a move to full-time, Jessica will have greater ability to work on these important, collaborative programs.
Eagle County's iconic landscapes, wildlife and ranches have received national attention through this video contest. This is a huge honor for our community and to all who are dedicated to conserving our natural and cultural resources for future generations to enjoy.
Congratulations and thank you again to Ben and his team at Capture the Action Productions for placing a national spotlight on the Eagle Valley Land Trust!
Bergen Tjossem is communications and fundraising coordinator at Eagle Valley Land Trust.