Retiring President Kate Bowditch Reflects on Her Time at Greenbelt

My first days at Greenbelt set the stage for what have been six truly wonderful years. From the start, I was warmly welcomed by everyone in the community — the staff, Board members, supporters, partners, and even complete strangers. As I settled into my new role, I immersed myself in the beauty of Greenbelt’s properties, heard inspiring conservation stories, connected with passionate volunteers, and stepped onto a salt marsh for the first time. It was clear that I had become part of an extraordinary and beloved organization that played a vital role in the community.

​​​​​​​Following this warm reception, my first year was defined by a whirlwind of activity. Just as I was finding my footing, Greenbelt had the opportunity to protect 148 acres of land owned by the Patton family in Hamilton and Topsfield. In just six months, thanks to the generosity of supporters near and far, we were able to raise $4 million and purchase the land, creating the Vineyard Hill Reservation and Iron Ox Farm. This incredible show of support for Greenbelt’s conservation work gave us tremendous momentum as we closed 2019.

Navigating Uncharted Waters

Our circumstances took an unexpected turn, however, as we entered the new decade. The global COVID pandemic dominated the next two years, challenging us to quickly adapt and evolve in response. I am incredibly proud of how Greenbelt was able to pivot during this period. With a steadfast focus on our role as a land trust and charge to engage with communities across Essex County, we found innovative and safe ways for people to get outside and experience nature. We also developed valuable resources for families with children at home, produced dynamic online content, and created dozens of videos, including my own “60 Walks” series to celebrate Greenbelt’s 60th anniversary.
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​​​​​​​Our Stewardship team was extraordinary throughout the pandemic, ensuring that our properties remained open and welcoming for visitors, including many who were new to hiking and outdoor adventures. Our Board also rose to the occasion, utilizing reserve funds to sustain our conservation work during a time of financial uncertainty and supporting staff decisions on matters ranging from annual meetings to remote work policies.

Embracing Change

The national focus on racial justice during this time period also inspired us to reflect deeply on our own mission. This led us to connect with new partner organizations and explore the conservation needs of a more diverse range of stakeholders, expanding both our reach and impact.
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​​​​​​​Those years transformed Greenbelt. While our core mission — protecting vital natural land and working farms — remains central to everything we do, we have significantly expanded our capacity. We now engage more people in our work. We’ve strengthened our stewardship of land. We leverage technology to help people navigate our trails, and to better understand the impacts of the changing climate. We’ve also enhanced our communication efforts to better showcase our achievements and progress.
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​​​​​​​Through all of this, the pace and impact of our land conservation work never faltered. In the past six years, Greenbelt has conserved more than 4,000 acres of land, closing 20 -30 projects annually. Although we’re still a small team, we’ve found effective ways to amplify our impact and achieve remarkable results.

Empowering Greenbelt’s People

​​​​​​All of this success has been made possible by Greenbelt’s exceptional staff and Board of Directors. As President, I think my most important responsibility has been supporting the people around me at Greenbelt. Our Board has been an invaluable partner, and together we’ve achieved ambitious goals and ensured a vibrant future for the organization. The staff, with all their expertise and commitment, have been a source of inspiration, and I have wanted more than anything to be the wind beneath their wings, eliminating obstacles and helping to advance their work. The culture at Greenbelt is truly exceptional — supportive, curious, committed, welcoming, kind — and it has been a joy to find ways to nurture and sustain this unique environment.
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​​​​​​​Of course, Greenbelt’s very existence is entirely due to the unwavering dedication of its members and supporters. Like all nonprofit organizations, Greenbelt was founded by community members who identified a crucial need and united to address it. To this day, our work continues to rely on the active engagement and support of individuals in our communities, especially our members.
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​​​​​​​As I prepare to retire from my role as President here at Greenbelt, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone I have had the pleasure of meeting and working with over the past six years. Being part of this community has been a privilege. Together, we’ve achieved many significant milestones and made a meaningful difference both here in Essex County and well beyond. Simply put, it’s been great!