Why Accreditation Matters
Keeping the promise of forever
In their own words
The Value of Accreditation
The refrain, “It was challenging, but it was worth it,” is something we hear often at the Commission. The accreditation process has proven to make land trusts stronger and better poised to take on challenges and defend the land. Accreditation is an investment that helps land trusts save more land, raise more money, attract more volunteers and opens doors for valuable discounts and funding opportunities.
The collective power of accreditation
Accredited Land Trusts Protect
The accreditation seal is a mark of distinction, and being accredited helps your land trust to stand out, to say to landowners, funders and other supporters: “Invest in us. We have proven we are a strong, effective organization you can trust to conserve your land forever.”
7.9million acres of forest
8.1thousand miles of trails
5.5million acres of agricultural land
Land Trust Accreditation Commission Values
In its actions and in its goals for the land trust community, the Commission aspires to the following values.
Integrity
To be clear and honest in our communications with land trusts, the public and others; to build trust in, and respect for, the accreditation program; to respect the confidentiality of data provided to us.
Accountability
To operate an accreditation program that is fair and makes consistent decisions; to learn from and respond to the land conservation community, the public and other stakeholders.
Service
To manage an accreditation program that is efficient and makes productive use of participants’ time; to work cooperatively with land trusts of all types and sizes as they go through the accreditation process.
The Commission is committed to recognizing land trust organizations of all types, sizes, geographies, and missions that meet rigorous quality standards and strive for continuous improvement.
By the numbers
A Measurable Impact
8XAccredited land trusts have 8x more money invested to steward and defend their conservation lands.
85%The percentage of public agencies and foundations that say accreditation increases their confidence in land trusts.
3XAccredited land trusts save 3X more land than their peers of similar size.
Find your path to accreditation
Keep Exploring
First-Time Accreditation
Learn what it takes to become an accredited land trust
Become a Partner
Discover why you should partner with an accredited land trust
Better Together
Accreditation strengthens the entire land trust community