In spring of 2023, the Commission released an updated version of the Requirements Manual and a document outlining the changes. Each month we will highlight a change, why we made it and why it is important. This month we are looking at an updated stewardship requirement.
What changed?
- As the availability and quality of satellite imagery increases, the requirement regarding on-the-ground monitoring has been revised to clarify it also applies to the use of remote methods, in addition to aerial ones, as well as applying to conservation properties.
How will it be implemented?
- To give land trusts time to implement the change, this requirement will be phased in and start in 2024 for conservation properties. If a land trust needs to change its practice and begin on-the-ground visits for its conservation properties, it should be prepared to show at least one on-the-ground visit between the period of 2024-2028.
- The current application includes the documents needed to demonstrate compliance; no new documents in the application will be requested.
- The Commission recognizes there may be isolated instances where it is not possible to conduct an on-the-ground visit due to the property being inaccessible or hazardous to access. Land trusts are encouraged to explain these instances as they would other isolated and rare instances of noncompliance (see p.9 of the Requirements Manual).
What did land trusts say?
- Most of the respondents supported this change, with many noting that this is their current practice and others suggesting it may be difficult for small land trusts. Phasing in the requirement will give land trusts of all sizes time to revise their practices and templates.
