Land Conservancy of Ridgefield, Inc.

The Land Conservancy of Ridgefield, Inc. is a nonprofit organization based in Ridgefield, Connecticut. Founded in 1967, it is one of the oldest land trusts in Connecticut dedicated to preserving open spaces and protecting natural, historic, and scenic sites in Ridgefield and adjacent areas[2][3].

Mission

The organization's mission is to acquire and preserve land in perpetuity for the benefit of the public while promoting public education about these resources. It works to conserve wildlife habitats, manage forested lands for sustainable purposes, and ensure the long-term protection of the environment[3].

Operations

The Land Conservancy of Ridgefield is an accredited member of the Land Trust Alliance, a national organization that supports over 900 land trusts across the United States[4]. It is part of a network of less than 400 accredited land trusts nationwide, demonstrating a commitment to professional excellence and public trust in land conservation[4]. The organization operates with a volunteer board of directors, all of whom are current or past residents of Ridgefield[2].

Conservation Efforts

As of recent reports, the Land Conservancy manages over 722 acres of property, including both outright ownership and conservation easements. Its holdings range from small parcels to larger tracts of up to 100 acres, ensuring a diverse range of ecosystems are protected[2]. The conservancy has a total of 106 owned parcels and maintains six conservation easements[1].

Financial Overview

The organization's financial reports indicate significant assets, reflecting its successful efforts in land conservation and management. It has reported revenues ranging from $178,000 to $2 million, with total assets valued between $5 million and $9.49 million[5]. The conservancy's expenses are focused on maintaining its operations and achieving its conservation goals[5].

Accreditations and Affiliations

In addition to being a member of the Land Trust Alliance, the Land Conservancy of Ridgefield is also a member of the Connecticut Land Conservation Council. This affiliation underscores its commitment to collaborative conservation efforts within the state[1]. The organization is Terrafirma insured, providing additional assurance of its financial and operational stability[3].