AN Accredited Land Trust
Since 2015, the Western New York Land Conservancy has been an accredited land trust through the Land Trust Alliance (LTA). Accreditation signifies that we meet rigorous national standards and follow established best practices in land conservation. This commitment helps ensure that the lands we protect are responsibly cared for and permanently protected for our community and the plants and animals who call them home.
“Accreditation through the Land Trust Alliance reflects our deep commitment to protecting land forever. I’m proud that the Western New York Land Conservancy meets the highest national standards for conservation, stewardship, and organizational excellence. This accreditation gives our community confidence that the lands we protect today will remain conserved and enjoyed by generations to come.”
- Marisa Riggi
Executive Director
Land Trust Alliance Standards
The Land Trust Alliance is a national organization that supports land trusts across the country in protecting land and ensuring it is cared for responsibly for generations to come. Through its accreditation program, the LTA promotes excellence, integrity, and permanence in land conservation. Accreditation is voluntary, but it signals that a land trust meets the highest national standards for protecting land and operating as a strong, ethical nonprofit organization.
Applicants for voluntary land trust accreditation must demonstrate implementation of Land Trust Standards and Practices. The Accreditation Commission evaluates applicants using select indicators from these Standards, which are designated by the LTA and chosen based on the following criteria:
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Responsible governance of the organization
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Protection of the public interest through sound and sustainable land transactions and stewardship
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Ethical operations
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Accountability to donors and the public
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Compliance with all applicable laws, including IRC §170(h) and §501(c)(3)
Re-accreditation Process
Every five years, we undergo a thorough re-accreditation process to ensure we continue to meet the highest national standards. 2026 is a re-accreditation year for the Western New York Land Conservancy.
The LTA Accreditation Commission invites public input and accepts signed, written comments on pending applications. Comments must relate to how the Western New York Land Conservancy complies with national quality standards. These standards address the ethical and technical operation of a land trust.
To learn more about the accreditation program and to submit a comment, visit www.landtrustaccreditation.org, or email your comment to info@landtrustaccreditation.org. Comments may also be mailed to the Land Trust Accreditation Commission, Attn: Public Comments, 36 Phila Street, Suite 2, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.
Comments on the Land Conservancy’s application will be most useful by July 24, 2026.