Multiple Corporations and Accreditation Toolkit

The Land Trust Accreditation Commission takes a scaled approach to its review of land trusts that operate under a multiple corporation structure. The Commission requires disclosure about all related organizations, but the level of information required varies (basic-level OR intermediate-level) depending on the nature of the relationship and the role of each organization. The purpose of examining all organizations is twofold:

1. Help preserve the integrity of the accreditation program by preventing confusion over or unauthorized use of the accreditation seal by entities affiliated with accredited organizations, and

2. Ensure that the Commission has the full set of information that it needs about the primary organization and the related organization at the time of application.

Basic: Generally applies to related entities that hold (or intend to hold) land or conservation easements but do not meet the accreditation eligibility requirements or may not be in the regular business of acquiring and stewarding land.

Intermediate: Generally applies to related entities that meet the accreditation eligibility requirements; this applies to many supporting organizations and wholly-owned subsidiaries.

If your land trust has a multiple corporation structure but has not spoken to the Commission about designation level, please use our Compliance Confirmation contact form to get started.

Please note: The policy does not apply to activities such as co-holding, fiscal sponsorships, or agreements with community foundations.