Chebeague & Cumberland Land Trust

CCLT Vision The Chebeague and Cumberland Land Trust envisions a future where the protection of wildlife habitat, healthy ecosystems, working farmland and waterfronts is recognized as essential for sustainable, healthy and diverse communities. We believe that the conservation of interconnected lands leads to natural climate solutions and greater biodiversity as we strive to provide everyone access to nature in our island and mainland communities. Increasing awareness about the importance of conservation will generate a greater appreciation for our natural resources and the need to preserve our treasured landscapes and rural character forever. Preamble The Chebeague & Cumberland Land Trust presents this strategic plan to build upon three decades of conservation work in the communities of Chebeague Island and Cumberland. While our mission and overall goals remain steadfast, we acknowledge the need to respond and make adjustments to today’s challenges and emerging opportunities. In the face of climate change, unprecedented development pressure, rising cost of land, and the need to be more welcoming and inclusive for all, the Board of Directors has adopted these strategic priorities as the guiding blueprint to ensure CCLT’s organizational growth and progress over the next five years. CCLT will continue to foster existing relationships and partnerships, develop new ones, and to expand our capacity to have meaningful impact within our communities. Strategic Priorities 2023-2028 1) Protect and Care for Natural Resources in Our Communities ● Expand and connect existing conserved parcels ● Prioritize protection and management of high value conservation areas for habitat protection, climate resiliency, water quality, scenic viewsheds, recreation, and working farmland and waterfront ● Engage community and volunteers in acquisition and care of our properties ● Raise funds to support the purchase and long-term stewardship of properties 2) Expand Public Access to Nature, Recreation and Education ● Assess and improve communications, signage, trails, infrastructure and events to facilitate better experiences on our protected properties and make all people feel welcome ● Cultivate diverse and strategic partnerships to connect more people with nature ● Design programs to increase awareness of natural systems and promote community engagement 3) Support Healthy, Sustainable Communities ● Support working farms, forests, and waterfront ● Nurture the next generation’s connection to nature ● Balance development and conservation 4) Build a Strong Organization to Achieve Our Goals ● Maintain high standard of practices and procedures ● Ensure financial health of the organization ● Support an active governing structure ● Ensure a diverse, inclusive, and equitable culture within all aspects of CCLT operations ● Retain staff and increase capacity with partnerships and volunteers

Chebeague & Cumberland Land Trust permanently conserves and stewards the natural resources across our island and mainland communities for the benefit of current and future generations.