In early November, members of Greenbelt's Conservation staff attended the 19th Annual Land Trust - State Agency Retreat at Harvard Forest in Petersham, MA.
Representatives of other Massachusetts land trusts, state environmental agencies and others involved in land conservation gathered to build connections and learn together.
This year's retreat focused on land stewardship issues as well as sharing best practices and examples of working with municipal partners on conservation efforts.
Among other topics, the conference discussed conservation restrictions, Community Preservation Act funding, innovative land management practices, and responsible dog walking on properties.
The Retreat is thought to be unique in the country, and over years it has served to strengthen friendships and working relationships in the public and nonprofit sectors, bolstering the effectiveness of Massachusetts land conservation professionals."
"The conservation community in Massachusetts is a uniquely collaborative one, that is based on years of partnership and trust," said Chris LaPointe, Greenbelt Vice President of Conservation Operations. "The Land Trust - State Agency Retreat is a prime example of how we recognize and nurture the relationships, and bring the next generation of professionals into the community of practitioners, which really benefits all of us."