7 Lakes Alliance has been accredited by the Land Trust Accreditation Commission, a national board that recognizes conservation organizations that meet rigorous quality standards and strive for continuous improvement. In awarding accreditation, the Commission signified its confidence that 7 Lakes Alliance lands will continue to be managed professionally and will be protected forever.
“Accreditation recognizes 7 Lakes Alliance’s commitment to achieving the highest possible standards as we permanently protect special lands in the Belgrade Lakes watershed,” said Laura Rose Day, President & CEO. “7 Lakes Alliance is stronger and more effective for having gone through the rigorous accreditation program. This strengthens our work with landowners and other partners to forever protect the special places of the Belgrade Lakes – such as the Kennebec Highlands – making Maine and this region an even greater place for us and our grandchildren.”
7 Lakes Alliance 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 7 Lakes' lands will be protected forever. Accredited land trusts steward almost 20 million acres of land throughout the United States - nearly the size of the entire State of Maine.
"It is exciting to recognize 7 Lakes Alliance with this national mark of distinction," said Melissa Kalvestrand, 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."
7 Lakes has helped protect nearly 10,000 acres of forest, agricultural land, ponds, streams and wetlands in the Belgrade Lakes region in partnership with private landowners, towns, federal agencies, and the State of Maine. This ranges from leading the effort to protect the Kennebec Highlands to helping families conserve the special lands that contribute to our unique region. By strategically conserving high priority natural resources, 7 Lakes provides water quality protection, wildlife habitat, and recreational opportunities for the benefit and enjoyment of the public.
7 Lakes Alliance 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