This year at Rally 2026 in Denver, the Commission had the opportunity to connect with the Land Trust Alliance, land trusts across the country, and other members of the conservation community.
The Opening Plenary included a celebration of the accredited land trust community that highlighted the seven land trusts that received first-time accreditation in the past year and the Commission’s milestone 20th anniversary.
Other Rally highlights include former Commissioner Andy Dana being presented the 2026 Kingsbury Browne Conservation Leadership Award as well as Land Trust Alliance CEO Ashley Demosthenes unveiling the Alliance’s new strategic plan.
The Commission’s exhibit was a lively meeting point for staff, board, and land trusts alike. Land trust community members shared what they find most beneficial and most challenging about accreditation. A fan-favorite answer for the most challenging aspect was that the accreditation application being due during hunting season.
The Commission also hosted two well attended workshops regarding accreditation: Get Ready for Your Renewal of Accreditation and Put Your Best Foot Forward: Tips and Tools for Understanding the Accreditation Requirements and Preparing Your Strongest Application. Missed the session or want a refresher? Materials from the workshops will be available in the Resource Center.
We encourage those who met Commission staff and board members to reach out and keep to conversations going. And, congratulations to all the speakers, presenters, and exhibitors for another successful Rally.
We need to hear from you if you...
Have a new executive director.
Changed geographical area.
Have a new contact for accreditation.
Changed corporate structure.
Changed names.
Decided to merge with another organization.
Changed programming, such as accepting easements when previously only accepting fee lands.
Land Trust Alliance 1250 H St. NW, Suite 600 Washington, District of Columbia, 20005, United States
The mission of the Land Trust Accreditation Commission is to inspire excellence, promote public trust and ensure permanence in the conservation of open lands by recognizing land trust organizations that meet rigorous quality standards and that strive for continuous improvement.
Land Trust Accreditation Commission, 36 Phila St, Suite 2, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
