The Dudley Conservation Land Trust Mission Statement

The mission of the Dudley Conservation Land Trust is to provide for, and promote the conservation, acquisition and protection of land and open space for education, passive recreation, wildlife habitat, and the preservation of the rural, natural and scenic character of the Town of Dudley, for current and future generations.

How can a Land Trust preserve land ?

Accept donations of land

Accept and hold conservation restrictions (easements)

Purchase land via a "bargain sale" or at fair market value

Assist local governments in open space planning

Advise landowners and developers of creative ways to preserve open space while meeting financial goals

Serve as an environmentally sensitive conscience for community policy makers

Rural New England is experiencing an alarming increase in population growth and development. The Massachusetts Audubon Society warns that in that state, more than 40 acres are lost to development every day. There is only about a 10--15 year window of opportunity to preserve the remaining woodlands and farmlands before they are all gone. Through a variety of mechanisms, land trusts help individuals preserve their properties.