Pre-Applications Arrive

The 2008 accreditation program is officially underway! Pre-applications from the first round of 2008 applicants drawn from the lottery arrived at the Commission’s office earlier this month. We look forward to working with these groups.

Change to Eligibility Requirements

The Commission is pleased to announce that it is extending the accreditation eligibility requirements to allow greater participation in the program. Beginning with 2009 applications, quasi-governmental organizations will be able to apply for land trust accreditation. According to a recent Land Trust Alliance report, quasi-governmental organizations collectively hold an estimated 12.5 percent of the conservation easements nationally on 541,000 acres. All applicants will complete the same application and the Commission will review quasi-governmental organizations using guidance in the new Alliance report.

New Materials on the Way

The new application for accreditation and companion Applicant Handbook will be released on March 7. The revised materials reflect the valuable feedback from pilot program participants – and commissioners and staff – gathered throughout the past year. Be on the lookout for these materials on our website.

Upcoming Events

Be sure to attend the accreditation workshop at these upcoming regional land trust conferences.

March 6 – 8: Midwest Land Conservation Conference

March 8: New Jersey Land Conservation Rally

March 15: Rhode Island Land and Water Conservation Summit