Mohonk Preserve Earns National Recognition For Excellence In Land Protection

GARDINER, N.Y., Aug. 21, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- After an extensive evaluation, Mohonk Preserve has been awarded accreditation by the Land Trust Accreditation Commission. Mohonk Preserve is one of only 230 land trusts from across the country that has been awarded accreditation since the fall of 2008, and the first to be accredited in Ulster County, N.Y.

To achieve accreditation, Mohonk Preserve underwent a rigorous review to ensure that their operations are efficient and strategic, and that their conservation work is permanent.

"The accreditation process was an intensive, multi-year collaboration that involved the Preserve's staff and Board and strengthened our entire organization," said Mohonk Preserve Director of Land Protection Jennifer Garofalini. "Having vetted and affirmed acquisition and stewardship policies and procedures in place is a key component of protecting land in perpetuity." 

Mohonk Preserve is now able to display a seal of accreditation indicating to the public that it meets national standards for excellence, upholds the public trust and ensures that conservation efforts are permanent. The seal is a mark of distinction in land conservation.

"As a longtime member of the Land Trust Alliance, Mohonk Preserve has been a national leader in land conservation," said Land Trust Alliance President Rand Wentworth, who recently visited the Preserve along with other representatives of the Land Trust Alliance. "Accreditation from the Land Trust Accreditation Commission is another confirmation of the Preserve's legacy of commitment to land protection and stewardship."

Established in 1963, Mohonk Preserve is New York State's largest member- and visitor-supported nature preserve. Each year, the Preserve welcomes over 150,000 visitors to 8,000 acres of protected cliffs, forests, fields and streams. The Preserve's supporters, including 14,000 members and 350 volunteers, help the organization fulfill its mission to protect the Shawangunk Mountains by inspiring people to care for, enjoy and explore the natural world.  

"Over the years, Land Trust Alliance support has helped Mohonk Preserve become a model of community conservation," said Mohonk Preserve Executive Director Glenn Hoagland. " Now, as we celebrate our 50^th anniversary, we are honored to receive accreditation from the Land Trust Accreditation Commission. We will continue to work closely with our towns and landowners at the critical nexus of nature, culture and the economy to help improve the lives and livelihoods of all in our community."

For more information, visit www.mohonkpreserve.org.

SOURCE Mohonk Preserve