North County Land Trust Strengthens Environmental Conservation Efforts in Townsend, MA through Merger with Townsend Conservation Land Trust

North County Land Trust (NCLT) is delighted to announce its official merger with Townsend Conservation Land Trust (TCLT). As of May 26, 2023, North County Land Trust assumed responsibility for managing four TCLT properties and will continue TCLT’s work protecting Townsend’s beloved open spaces and encouraging residents to celebrate its rich natural heritage. 

“We are happy to be a part of TCLT’s evolution and are excited to get more involved with Townsend. It’s such a beautiful and ecologically important town,” said Anna Wilkins, Executive Director of North County Land Trust. 

The merger between Townsend Conservation Land Trust and North County Land Trust ensures that Townsend’s cherished conservation areas remain permanently protected and managed at the highest level for future generations. 

This merger brings significant benefits to the Townsend community. TCLT’s public conservation areas, including Howard M Stein Memorial Park and Mikko and John Aho Nature Walk and Park, will remain accessible to the public. Exciting projects are underway to enhance these conservation areas for the benefit of the community. Planned improvements include trail enhancements, improved marking, and signage for Mikko and John Aho Nature Walk and Park, as well as trail cleanup and signage improvements for Howard M Stein Memorial Park. 

Restoration and conservation projects on NCLT properties are led by experienced land protection staff, including Stewardship Manager Emily Merlino. These efforts are also supported by a dedicated network of volunteers in the surrounding area. “We are eager to explore these properties and engage with community members who enjoy them,” wrote Merlino. “We invite residents in the area to join us in stewarding these lands together.” For more information about volunteering, click here.

 “The possibilities that North County Land Trust, a regional organization, brings to the Town of Townsend in terms of stewardship, conservation, outdoor opportunities and education are so exciting.  We look forward to NCLT’s presence in Townsend.” – Veronica Kell, Townsend Conservation Land Trust 

Established in 1992, North County Land Trust has been dedicated to protecting and preserving the forests, landscapes, and farms that define north central Massachusetts. Their focus extends to diverse communities, where they work to conserve land and water resources, urban parks, working forests, and scenic landscapes, benefiting all residents. NCLT prioritizes outreach and actively collaborates with landowners, municipal officials, and community groups to identify mutually beneficial conservation goals. They also emphasize connecting individuals to their natural environment through educational programs and nature hikes. NCLT leverages partnerships with government agencies and other conservation organizations to maximize resources and accomplish significant projects, such as Gateway Park in Fitchburg and the protection of extensive public water supply land. 

Townsend Conservation Land Trust, founded in 1988, has played a vital role in open space preservation and the protection of natural resources. Over the past 35 years, TCLT has conserved more than 200 acres of land in Townsend, fulfilling its commitment to promote the conservation of local natural resources, provide public access to its properties, and offer public education related to these resources. 

For more information, and to support NCLT’s work in Townsend and beyond, please consider making a donation to our annual fund.