An Earth Month Message from Steve

By Steve Walker, BTLT Executive Director

Maine land trusts embody the philosophy of “think globally, act locally.” Unlike many states with only a few conservation organizations tackling climate change, habitat loss, and declining access to nature, Maine is home to over 80 local land trusts working alongside regional and statewide organizations. This network is vital because these trusts develop deep relationships with Maine’s 470 organized towns and the landowners who shape these communities.

When BTLT was founded in 1985, real estate development was booming. “As for sale signs come down, no trespassing signs go up” was a common refrain. Large national corporations were buying up coastal and lakefront properties, threatening public access. In response, local citizens united to protect beloved landscapes from unchecked development.

Forty years later, land trusts have evolved beyond conservation to meet a broader range of community needs. While preserving special places remains central, we now collaborate with towns on long-term planning, secure working waterfronts, strengthen local agriculture and food systems, and provide outdoor education and public event opportunities.

In the face of climate change and biodiversity loss, land trusts are leading science-based conservation, habitat restoration, and community engagement efforts to build a more resilient future.

How does this work happen? Dedicated supporters! While some public funds exist, most of our operating budget comes from private donations and foundations. Despite the crucial role we play in conservation, recreation, and natural resource planning, land trusts receive no regular taxpayer support. We step in where state and local governments lack capacity, ensuring the protection of vital natural spaces and outdoor learning opportunities.

Though land trusts operate as membership organizations, the lands we protect and the benefits we provide are for everyone. We acquire land only from willing sellers and never pay above fair market value. We respect town growth plans and seek to increasingly partner in affordable housing efforts. While nonprofits are not required to pay property taxes, we often enroll lands in current-use tax programs to contribute to municipal services like fire prevention and public safety.

What we ask in return is simple: partnership. Whether through membership, volunteerism, advocacy, or simply enjoying conserved lands, your involvement strengthens our impact. The clean water, recreation, wildlife habitat, working farmland and waterfronts, and sense of place our lands provide are gifts to our communities. Together, we can ensure they endure for future generations.

For us, every day is Earth Day. And every day, we work for you.

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