The Presumpscot Regional Land Trust (PRLT) is applying for renewal of their national land trust accreditation. As part of the process, the Land Trust Accreditation Commission invites public input and is currently accepting signed, written comments on the application.
PRLT Executive Director Will Sedlack explained, “Accreditation shows our community that we operate with integrity and excellence. It’s how we demonstrate that the lands we protect today will remain safeguarded for generations to come.”
As a part of the rigorous process, overseen by the independent commission, public comments should focus on how PRLT complies with the national standards for land trust operations found in the publication, “Land Trust Standards and Practices.” These standards include both ethical and technical practices. They include responsible governance of the organization, protection of the public interest with sound and sustainable land transactions and stewardship, ethical operation, accountability to donors and the public, and compliance with all laws.
The public is able to find the Requirements Manual and the 2017 edition of “Land Trust Standards and Practices” online at https://www.landtrustaccreditation.org/.
PRLT describes itself as a community-based nonprofit serving Gorham, Gray, Standish, Westbrook, and Windham.
As stated on the PRLT website,” We engage with communities to conserve, steward, and provide access to local lands and clean water, for current and future generations to enjoy, ” and “We hold conserved lands with free public access preserves that include trails and water access. We are the water stewards of the Presumpscot River watershed and we coordinate the Sebago to the Sea Trail, a 28-mile trail from Standish to Portland.”
In addition to Sedlack, PRLT staff includes Toby Jacobs, program manager, Brenna Crothers, community engagement manager, and Becca Troast, development coordinator.
How to submit a comment:
Online: www.landtrustaccreditation.org
Email: info@landtrustaccreditation.org
Mail: Land Trust Accreditation Commission
Attn: Public Comments
36 Phila Street, Suite 2
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Deadline to comment:
Submit by Sept. 1, 2025 to ensure your feedback is considered.
THE PRLT VISION FOR GORHAM’S FUTURE
As Gorham continues to grow, access to nearby natural spaces becomes even more essential. The Gorham Community Forest is being designed to serve residents of all ages and abilities, with plans including over a mile of scenic trails, accessible boardwalks winding through wetlands, and peaceful views of Indian Camp Brook. The property will offer a natural retreat within walking distance of homes, schools, and local businesses in downtown Gorham. Crucially, the project will also include a dedicated entrance for Village Elementary School, creating a unique opportunity for students to regularly engage with nature. A planned outdoor classroom will serve as a cornerstone of the site, offering hands-on environmental learning opportunities for local children. A short walk from classrooms to forest trails will open doors to science, ecology, and a lifelong appreciation of the outdoors.
https://www.prlt.org/