Lakes Region Conservation Trust (LRCT)

Land Conservation--The Lakes Region Conservation Trust has conserved more than 28,500 acres of land since the Organizations founding in 1979. This included nearly 18,500 acres owned by LRCT, over 8,800 acres subject to primary conservation easements held by LRCT, and over 1,100 acres conserved through other means. These lands include 30 summits, more than 41 miles of shoreline on the regions lakes, ponds, rivers and streams, and more than 100 miles of trails open to the public for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, and certain trails open for mountain biking and snowmobiling. Each year LRCT works with landowners, other conservation organizations, and local conservation commissions on dozens of land conservation projects and opportunities throughout the Lakes Region. LRCTs land conservation work is guided by the Lakes Region Strategic Conservation Plan, incorporating climate change resilience data, that provides a valuable land conservation tool for LRCT and other land conservation organizations working in the region.

Conservation EducationOutreachCommunicationsThe Lakes Region Conservation Trust produces newsletters, trail maps, and other informational materials and maintains substantial information on its website regarding the Organizations conserved lands and land conservation activities. As noted above, a particular focus of the Organizations work is the provision of opportunities for the public to enjoy, appreciate, and learn from the conserved lands. In this regard, LRCT maintains informational kiosks at many properties, and organizes guided hikes, guided paddles, and educational programs for the public regarding the conserved lands. In addition, LRCT works with local schools and other organizations to introduce members of the community to the conserved lands, to provide opportunities for these other organizations to integrate conserved lands into their curricula and programs, and to enhance their understanding of the Lakes Regions natural heritage and the important role of land conservation in shaping the natural landscapes cherished by residents and visitors alike.

Land Management, Stewardship, and Recreation--As noted above, the Lakes Region Conservation Trust has conserved more than 28,500 acres of land since the Organizations founding in 1979. A significant part of LRCTs responsibilities is the management of more than 100 owned properties totaling nearly 18,500 acres and the monitoring of 57 conservation easements totaling over 8,800 acres to ensure that the conservation values of these lands are being protected and that easement restrictions and requirements are being satisfied. A particular focus of LRCTs land management work is the provision of opportunities for the public to enjoy, appreciate, and learn from the conserved lands. Consequently, the Organization devotes significant effort to stewardship of trails open to the public for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, as well as certain trails open for mountain biking and snowmobiling. In its land management and stewardship work, the Organization benefits greatly from the participation and efforts of more than 200 talented and dedicated volunteers.