Land trusts are community-based groups whose members work to permanently protect open space, including farms, fields, woodlands and riverways. This can be done in several ways, including buying land or purchasing the rights to prevent future development on a site. Sometimes people donate land or future land rights to a land trust out of a desire to preserve the quality of their community and environment. Most often, land trusts facilitate the transition of property ownership; they are not land banks.
The East Quabbin Land Trust (EQLT) began in 1994 because of concern for the loss of farmland and wildlife habitat to unplanned sprawl in and around Hardwick. Since 1998, EQLT has expanded its protection efforts to Barre, Petersham, New Braintree and other nearby towns. By working cooperatively with property owners, government agencies, conservation groups and other land trust organizations, the Land Trust has been able to protect over 4,000 acres!
Our Mission
The East Quabbin Land Trust works to foster the sustainable use of our natural and historic resources for the benefit of all generations through the conservation and stewardship of the farmlands, woodlands and waters in our region of Massachusetts.
Our Board of Directors
Officers:
Judith Jones of New Braintree, President
Mark Mattson of Oakham, Vice President
Jerry Reilly of Hardwick, Treasurer
Stan White of Hardwick, Clerk
Members:
- Senator Stephen Brewer of Barre,
- Ann Hicks of North Brookfield
- Phil Hubbard of Barre
- Jody Kablack of New Braintree
- Harry Webb of Hardwick
- Ginny Rich of Barre
- Martha Klassanos of Ware
- Rick Romano of Hardwick
- Cynthia Henshaw of Templeton, Executive Director
Staff:
Richard Cavanaugh, Development Manager
Pattie Rich, Bookkeeper
Jess Cusworth, Program Coordinator
Sophie Andrews, Americorps Member, Youth Education Coordinator
Employment Opportunities at the East Quabbin Land Trust
Currently there are no open positions.
About Land Trusts
Are land trusts government agencies?
So, what are the advantages of working with a land trust?
I first heard about land trusts just a few years ago. Are they new?
What has contributed to the huge growth in the number of land trusts?