News

HLT Achieves National Accreditation

March 15, 2023

One thing that unites us as a nation is land: Americans strongly support saving the open spaces they love. Since 1991, Harford Land Trust has been doing just that for the people of Harford County. In February 2023, HLT announced it has achieved national recognition – joining a network of over 450 accredited land trusts across the nation that have demonstrated their commitment to professional excellence and to maintaining the public’s trust in their work.

“Accreditation demonstrates HLT’s commitment to permanent land conservation in Harford County. We are a stronger organization for having gone through the rigorous accreditation program. Our strength means special places – such as Belle Vue Farm –will be protected forever, making Harford County an even greater place for us and our children.”

Kristin Kirkwood, HLT Executive Director

HLT 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 HLT’s lands will be protected forever. Accredited land trusts steward almost 20 million acres of land – the size of Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island combined.

“It is exciting to recognize HLT with this national mark of distinction. Donors and partners can trust the more than 450 accredited land trusts across the country are united behind strong standards and have demonstrated sound finances, ethical conduct, responsible governance, and lasting stewardship.”

Melissa Kalvestrand, Executive Director of the Land Trust Accreditation Commission

HLT 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.