Putnam Land Trust Earns National Recognition

From PCLT: One thing that unites us as a nation is land: Americans strongly support saving the open spaces they love. Since 1969, The Putnam County Land Trust, has been doing just that for the people of eastern Putnam County. Now Putnam County Land Trusts announces it has achieved national recognition – joining a network of over 400 accredited land trusts across the nation that have demonstrated their commitment to professional excellence and to maintaining the public’s trust in their work.

“Accreditation demonstrates Putnam County Land Trust’s commitment to permanent land conservation in eastern Putnam County,” said Judith Terlizzi, Board President. “We are a stronger organization for having gone through the rigorous accreditation program. Our strength means special places – such as the Ice Pond basin and the Cornwall Hill Ridge – will be protected forever, helping to make Putnam County an even greater place for us and our children.”

Putnam County Land Trust provided extensive documentation and was subject to a comprehensive third-party evaluation prior to achieving this distinction. The Land Trust Accreditation Commission awarded accreditation, signifying its confidence that its lands will be protected forever. Accredited land trusts steward almost 20 million acres of land – the size of Denali, Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Glacier, Everglades and Yosemite National Parks combined

“It is exciting to recognize Putnam County Land Trust with this national mark of distinction,” said Tammara Van Ryn, executive director of the Commission. “Donors and partners can trust the more than 400 accredited land trusts across the country are united behind strong standards and have demonstrated sound finances, ethical conduct, responsible governance, and lasting stewardship.”

PCLT is one of 1,363 land trusts across the United States according to the Land Trust Alliance’s most recent National Land Trust Census. A complete list of accredited land trusts and more information about the process and benefits can be found at www.landtrustaccreditation.org.

PHOTO/ Putnam County Land Trust