Welcome! 

Welcome to renewal of accreditation! The process for applying for renewal of accreditation is different than the process used for first-time applicants. This section of our website provides a step-by-step introduction to renewal.

• The best place to start is to watch these two video tutorials:

Preparing for Renewal	Renewal Overview

• Then, explore each of the following sections:

Accreditation Principles

• Accreditation is voluntary.
• All information provided by applicants is managed in accordance with the Commission's confidentiality policy.
• Accreditation is not a one-time action; it is a tool to foster continuous improvement.
• Accredited organizations are united by strong ethical practices and a commitment to the long-term stewardship of land and conservation easements in the public interest.

There are several principles that guided the development of the renewal program.

• Renewal is on a five-year cycle to best meet the purposes identified above. (Some accreditation programs are annual; some extend as long as ten years. The longer-cycle programs tend to involve complete re-accreditation.)
• Renewal is intended to focus on the accredited land trust’s activities during its five-year accredited term.
• The renewal process has fewer checkpoints and opportunities for corrective action than the process for first-time accreditation; the Commission expects that accredited land trusts have been following Land Trust Standards and Practices and program requirements throughout their accredited term.
• The renewal process involves an online application and review system.

Purpose of Renewal

• To foster continued implementation of all of Land Trust Standards and Practices.
• To reflect evolving best practices in the field.
• To confirm compliance with current accreditation indicators and program requirements.
• To verify an accredited land trust’s action on expectations for improvement.
• To identify and evaluate major changes in accredited land trusts.