In February, the Land Trust Accreditation Commission announced that 21 land trusts have achieved initial or renewed accreditation. Among those renewing their accreditation were two Pennsylvania land trusts: Delaware Highlands Conservancy and Chestnut Hill Conservancy & Historical Society.

“Renewing our accreditation demonstrates the Delaware Highlands Conservancy’s ongoing commitment to permanent land conservation in the Upper Delaware River region,” said Delaware Highlands Conservancy executive director Diane Rosencrance. “We are a stronger organization than ever for having gone through the rigorous accreditation renewal process. This evolution of the Conservancy means the special places of our region – the forests, farms, and clean waters – will be protected forever, ensuring our wonderful quality of life is protected for us and for future generations.”

“By awarding this renewal, the Land Trust Accreditation Commission signifies its confidence that lands under stewardship of the Chestnut Hill Conservancy will be protected forever,” said Chestnut Hill executive director Lori Salganicoff. “We are proud to be the first urban land trust accredited through the LTAC and are excited to continue our important work as stewards of natural and cultural resources in Chestnut Hill.”

Accredited land trusts must renew every five years, confirming their compliance with national quality standards and providing continued assurance to donors and landowners of their commitment to forever steward their land and easements.  Almost 20 million acres of farms, forests and natural areas vital to healthy communities are now permanently conserved by an accredited land trust. View a complete list of accredited land trusts and find more information at http://www.landtrustaccreditation.org.