What's the difference between NLT and groups like The Nature
Conservancy (TNC) and local watershed groups?
Natural Lands Trust is the only group focused on the entire Delaware Valley and which protects land of both natural and cultural value. TNC is a global organization that saves land with rare species present. Local
watershed or community groups focus on preserving land in their defined, immediate area.
They do not typically have the staff capacity that we do.
Who owns the land that you preserve?
Natural Lands Trust (NLT) owns most of its preserves. We are a non-profit, 501(c)3
organization as defined by the IRS. Lands under conservation easement continues to be owned by the
individual or institution, not NLT.
How do you decide which projects to undertake?
Generally, we focus on projects in regionally-significant areas (what we call Keystone
Landscapes and Watersheds) and on projects with high community value (Community Gems). We
are often called on to engage in projects which require an organization of our size and
experience. Whatever the project, conservation success requires two things - a willing
landowner and committed funding partners.
Can NLT help oppose a particular development?
The short answer is no. We are not an advocacy group and do not get involved in specific
disputes with developers. We try to encourage townships to do better planning before these
disputes arise. We generally only get involved when a municipality contracts with us to review a land use plan.
Can NLT stop development?
Again, no. In fact, we do not generally believe that this would be appropriate. Our
non-confrontational approach to conservation is rooted in the belief that conservation and
growth are both vital to healthy communities and that there can (and must!) be an appropriate balance
between them.
Why should I support NLT vs. another conservation
organization?
We hope that your support of conservation will include local, regional, national and
international organizations. There is excellent work being done at all levels and the
challenges of conservation aren't constrained by political boundaries.
If, however, you are choosing one organization in this area to support, you should know
that Natural Lands Trust fills a unique role. First, we are a regional organization and
focus on projects that are of both local and regional importance. Second, our staff size and
experience means we often have the expertise to complete conservation projects which smaller
organizations could not. Finally, we have a unique commitment to owning and caring for land
we've preserved - lands that will always be here for the region's residents.
Where do you get your funding?
Like all non-profits, we depend on contributions for almost all of our funding - whether for
keeping the lights on, caring for a preserve or buying land. Much of our operational funding
comes from individuals and foundations. We are also fortunate to have an endowment which
provides some operational support and funds for specific preserves and programs. Money for
buying land comes mostly from public agencies at the state, county and local level - though
we usually must raise additional capital and transaction costs (similar to the closing costs paid when buying a
house).
What will you do with my contribution?
Individual contributions provide critical support for things like the transaction costs
associated with land protection, the substantial costs of managing our nature preserves,
conservation planning efforts and much more. We take pride in keeping our administrative
costs low so that contributions have a direct impact on our conservation mission.
Is NLT a government agency?
No we are not affiliated with any government agency. We are a private, non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization. We do receive public grants for land acquisition and other programs.
How much do you pay your Board of Trustees?
Nothing. Our board, like most nonprofit boards, is made up of dedicated volunteers. We do
not pay them anything. We also have a clear Conflict of Interest policy that forbids any "inside dealing"
for a board member's benefit.
Have another question? Please contact us!
