Make a difference at the local level
We help communities protect the places they love, including town forests, sledding hills, or swimming holes. These projects often require local fundraising to augment public funding. Led by local champions and town leaders, these campaigns generate excitement and funding to support protection and ongoing maintenance.
Currently there are no active campaigns, but read on to learn about recent successes!
Visit Hinesburg Town Forest expanded
Hinesburg Town Forest expanded
Thanks to volunteers, the Hinesburg Land Trust, and many others, nearly 300 acres were added to the Hinesburg Town Forest. And the resulting 1,125-acre forest was protected! The forest lies within a 4,400-acre stretch of woods that has vernal pools, unique natural features, and miles of streams, and many trails! Multiple times in its history, the town forest was threatened by proposals to sell off and potentially develop the land. Now, the humans, animals, and plants that call Hinesburg home can breathe a little easier.
Visit First-of-its-kind, two-town forest created in Sharon and Strafford
First-of-its-kind, two-town forest created in Sharon and Strafford
We were thrilled to work with the Alliance for Vermont Communities, the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board, and other partners to help create the new 256-acre Ashley Community Forest . The new town forest offers walking, hunting, snowmobiling, birdwatching, and forest management. This was no easy feat – dedicated folks, many of whom volunteered a lot of time, have been working on this for four years!
Visit Historic Observatory Knob In St. Johnsbury Protected by Community
Historic Observatory Knob In St. Johnsbury Protected by Community
After a whirlwind, two-month fundraising campaign, the community of St. Johnsbury and the Vermont Land protected this historic property. The land is regularly used by local camps, as a training site for the St. Johnsbury Academy cross-country team, for hiking and snowshoeing, and more. Hikers have filled more than ten summit logbooks over nearly 15 years. Additional trails and educational uses, including an outdoor classroom by the Fairbanks Museum, are planned.
