Sharon Land Trust Inc.

Overview

The Sharon Land Trust Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the rural heritage of Sharon, Connecticut. Established on October 14, 1982, the trust aims to protect and conserve lands of special scenic, natural, environmental, recreational, historic, or agricultural value[1][2]. The organization is managed by a Board of Directors, with elections held annually[1].

History

Initially incorporated in 1982, the land trust became more proactive in land preservation in the late 1990s. A pivotal moment was the successful purchase of the 70-acre Twin Oaks field in 1998, which marked a new era of conservation efforts in the town. This project was made possible through community donations, demonstrating the strong local support for preserving Sharon's natural and historical assets[2].

Conservation Efforts

As of the latest data, the Sharon Land Trust holds conservation easements on over 2,008 acres and owns more than 1,682 acres of land[2]. These areas are preserved for their ecological significance, including wildlife habitats, carbon absorption, agricultural uses, and recreational purposes. The public is invited to explore the trust's nine public preserves, which include over 22 miles of trails for hiking, walking, biking, and other outdoor activities[3].

Mission and Activities

The mission of the Sharon Land Trust is to act as stewards of the land, preserving it for the benefit of nature and the community[3]. The trust promotes sustainable land management practices and supports local agriculture, ensuring that food systems and wildlife habitats remain intact. Additionally, the trust offers opportunities for community engagement through volunteer activities such as trail maintenance and conservation efforts[3].

Accreditation and Affiliations

The Sharon Land Trust is an accredited member of the Land Trust Alliance, demonstrating its commitment to high standards of land conservation. The trust is also Terrafirma insured, providing financial protection for its conservation work[3].

[1] https://housatonicheritage.org/places/sharon-land-trust-sharon-conn/ [2] https://sharonlandtrust.org/our-history/ [3] https://landtrustalliance.org/land-trusts/explore/sharon-land-trust-ct [4] https://sharonlandtrust.org/about-sharon/ [5] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/06-1069118