KENT, Conn.—The Kent Land Trust is applying for renewal of its accreditation by the Land Trust Accreditation Commission. A public comment period is now open.
The land trust accreditation program recognizes land conservation organizations that meet national quality standards for protecting important natural places and working lands forever.
The commission, an independent program of the Land Trust Alliance, conducts an extensive review of each applicant’s policies and programs to determine if the land trust is well led and managed, setting clear goals and carefully maintaining written records.
In determining that a land trust is acting ethically, the commission verifies its practices and controls that ensure financial sustainability and accountability and assesses whether the trust is disciplined in acquiring land and conservation easements.
Further, the land trust’s administrators must demonstrate that they adhere to conservation values and legal protections, and effectively monitor conservation easements to make sure these legal agreements are being followed. It must also inspect and manage its conservation fee properties.
“Land trust accreditation is important to the Kent Land Trust because it demonstrates our commitment to protecting the places that make our community special—not just for today, but for generations to come,” said Connie Manes, executive director. “It assures our residents, landowners and supporters that Kent Land Trust operates under the highest standards of ethical practices, financial accountability, and professional stewardship. Accreditation reinforces public trust in our work and ensures that the lands, wildlife habitats, scenic vistas, and natural resources we work so hard to protect will be cared for in perpetuity.”
The commission invites public input and accepts signed, written comments on pending applications. Comments must relate to how Kent Land Trust complies with national quality standards.
To learn more about the accreditation program and to submit a comment click here or email comments to info@landtrustaccreditation.org. Comments may also be mailed to the Land Trust Accreditation Commission, Attn: Public Comments, 36 Phila Street, Suite 2, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.
Comments on Kent Land Trust’s application will be most useful before Dec. 27, 2026.
