“Being accredited illustrates to our Eastern Shore community that we work at the highest level of professional competency and integrity in our field. It is a promise that VES Land Trust strictly implements the industry’s best practices for new conservation easements as well as stewarding those already in place,” commented Karen Terwilliger, VES Land Trust Past President.
it’s official
VES Land Trust first became accredited in 2011. The process is rigorous and strengthens land trusts so they can help landowners and communities achieve their goals.
VES Land Trust is one of the more than 450 accredited land trusts that demonstrate their commitment to professional excellence through accreditation, helping to maintain the public’s trust in their work. The Land Trust Accreditation Commission awarded renewed accreditation in 2022, signifying its confidence that VES Land Trust’s lands will be protected forever.
“It is exciting to recognize VES Land Trust’s continued commitment to national standards by renewing this national mark of distinction," said Melissa Kalvestrand, executive director of the Commission. “Donors and partners can trust the more than 450 accredited land trusts across the country are united behind strong standards and have demonstrated sound finances, ethical conduct, responsible governance, and lasting stewardship."
Each accredited land trusts must apply for renewal every five years and undergoes a comprehensive review as part of its renewal application. VES Land Trust first became accredited in 2011. The process is rigorous and strengthens land trusts so they can help landowners and communities achieve their land conservation goals.
Accreditation shows VES Land Trust’s dedication to sound financial practices, ethical conduct, responsible governance, and lasting stewardship. As a supporter, you can be confident VES Land Trust is meeting national quality standards and best practices for protecting the important natural places and working lands you love forever. Read the full press release.
Read Land Trust Alliance's winter 2019 Saving Land feature article “The Impact of Accreditation,” which details a new report quantifying the impact of the first 10 years of the accreditation program.