Press release from Mainspring Conservation Trust:
Mainspring Conservation Trust, a regional land trust in western North Carolina and based out of Franklin, today announced it has achieved reaccreditation – a mark of honor in land conservation. The Land Trust Accreditation Commission awarded reaccreditation, signifying its continued confidence that Mainspring lands will be protected forever.
Accredited land trusts across the country have permanently conserved more than 15 million acres of farms, forests and natural areas that are vital to healthy, vibrant communities.
“Accreditation demonstrates Mainspring’s commitment to permanent land conservation in the Southern Blue Ridge,” said Sharon Taylor, Executive Director. “We’re a stronger organization because of our participation in the demanding accreditation program and this strength helps make western North Carolina an even better place for us and our children.”
Since 1997, Mainspring (formerly the Land Trust for the Little Tennessee) has conserved more than 25,000 acres of land and hundreds of miles of riverbanks. Its flagship project includes the North Carolina Needmore Game Lands. The non-profit is also known for their cultural heritage impact and youth educational programs, including Kids in the Creek.
Mainspring was first accredited in 2010 and is among 37 land trusts across the United States to achieve accreditation or to have accreditation renewed in February. Mainspring joins the 342 land trusts that demonstrate their commitment to professional excellence through accreditation, helping to maintain the public’s trust in their work.
“It is exciting to recognize Mainspring with this continued distinction,” said Tammara Van Ryn, executive director of the Commission. “Together, accredited land trusts stand united behind strong national standards ensuring the places people love will be conserved forever. In all, over 75 percent of private lands conserved by land trusts are now held by an accredited land trust.”
Each accredited land trusts meets extensive documentation requirements and undergoes a comprehensive review as part of its accreditation application. The process is rigorous and strengthens land trusts with systems that help landowners and communities achieve their goals. More information about land trust accreditation can be found at www.landtrustaccreditation.org.
The Commission is an independent program of the Land Trust Alliance, a national land conservation organization working to save the places people need and love by strengthening land conservation across America.
Learn more about Mainspring at www.mainspringconserves.org.
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