Providing opportunities

Land trusts don’t just preserve land. In many cases, they preserve a community’s heritage and character.

That was the case when the accredited Kent Land Trust in Connecticut conserved Camp Francis, a decommissioned Girl Scout campground. When the property just outside a picturesque, rural town went on the market, Kent Land Trust knew it needed to act fast. A campaign quickly came together — and received support from all quarters.

The end result? Camp Francis is now conserved and providing new opportunities for relaxation and education.

“I’ve seen so many Girl Scout camps just disappear and get destroyed,” says Margaret Pyrch Bowlan, a former Girl Scout. “And I’m happy that the land trust has taken it over and kept it in the condition that it’s in and will maintain it for people to go up and enjoy what I enjoyed.”

Small and all-volunteer organizations such as Kent Land Trust play a vital role in the land conservation movement. Powered by volunteers, they harness the energy of their communities and have a unique commitment to the history of the their lands. They are nimble, efficient and dedicated. And, like all land trusts, they look to the Alliance for support and guidance. We offer tailored services to help all land trusts succeed.

Josh Lynsen is media relations manager for the Land Trust Alliance.