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ABOUT US
Even though the Forest Trust is the oldest of the New Mexico land trusts, I frequently get the question, why the Forest Trust? Why are there so many land trusts? Wouldn’t it be more efficient if we just had one? That way, we would know where to place our charitable dollars.
Personally, I have resisted the campaigns over the years to merge the various land trusts into one or two in the state. I believe that the diversity of organizations offers potential donors of land, easements or funds a choice of personalities and organizational profiles to work with. Some trusts are defined by a unique geographical focus. The Taos Land Trust, for example. Others find their character in cultural or community interest that crosses geographic boundaries. The Mexicano Land Conservation and Education Trust would be a good example. Finally, others including the Forest Trust define themselves based on a specific topic of interest.
So again, why the Forest Trust? What is unique about the organization? Most simply, the Forest Trust deals with forested lands. We have the expertise to understand the intricacies of forest management and working forest conservation easements in a way that no other state land trust does. We also focus on lands, forested or not, that are adjacent to the national forests. We have invested years in building strong relationships with Forest Service personnel. Finally, we have an intimate, hands on sense of what forest and land management entails. We can offer prospective donors a host of practical skill, drawn not only from staff but from a professional community that spans the nation.
Several times, donors have come to me after finding disappointment with other land trusts. As many times, possible deals have migrated from the Trust to another organization. I don’t complain. To me, the process is working to everyone’s benefit. In all, I am sure of the value and contributions of the diversity of land trusts across the state. I am confident that the conservation community is well served by these committed organizations and I am proud of the unique role that the Forest Trust plays.
Sincerely,
Henry
FOREST TRUST
FOREST TRUST P.O. Box 8309 Santa Fe, New Mexico 87504 505-983-4244 p 505-986-0798 f
question ...
why the Forest Trust?
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