Land Conservation is Working for Vermont

Land conservation has been a powerful, dynamic, and enduring movement in Vermont these past 34 years. By working with individuals and communities, pulling together resources, and employing creative methods, the Vermont Land Trust has conserved some of our state's most valued resources.

When we consider what we have accomplished, together with thousands of partners, the breadth and depth of the results are tremendous: more than 514,000 acres protected (over 8 percent of the state). This number includes 745 farms, 367,000 acres of forestland, and 670 easement donations.

The Vermont Land Trust has protected land in 236 of our 251 towns. But how has conserving this land affected the lives of Vermonters? Have we protected what is important to residents and visitors? Are we protecting the land, natural resources, and economic opportunities that will support future generations?

We have heard loud and clear—from our members, the landowners we work with, and the communities trying to protect places special to them—that land conservation is working for Vermont. That conservation is making sure farming and forestry stay an important part of our economy, expanding our local food offerings and recreational opportunities, and protecting natural resources such as wildlife and water quality.

We are sometimes asked how we will know when there has been enough land conservation. The answer is that we remain curious and listen to you. As much as ever, we hear of outside pressures for unplanned development, forest fragmentation, and conversion of farms to other uses. We hear of new farmers who wish to farm but can't find affordable farmland. We hear from communities that they wish to have more local food choices or open spaces where people can recreate. We have and will continue to respond to these needs.

This annual report looks back at our accomplishments of the past year and at our ongoing stewardship—in partnership with landowners—of conserved land. We are driven by our members, partners, and those who live in and visit Vermont to make a difference in meaningful and lasting ways. As we look ahead to this next year, we know there is more work to be done to protect the land and resources that make Vermont what it is. We are up to the challenge.

Read about some of the projects featured in this year's annual report:

• Keeping Farming Alive and Affordable
• Expanding Opportunities to Enjoy the Land
• Protecting Rivers and Reducing Flood Risks
• Honoring Forestland, Protecting Habitat

You can also read the full annual report by contacting our office at (802) 223-5234, e-mailing us, or downloading the full PDFs of the report here.