York Land Trust Launches Capital Campaign to Mark 40-Year Anniversary 

YORK, Maine — As  York Land Trust celebrates 40 years of protecting the lands and waterways of the greater York area, the organization is launching a three-year, $10 million capital campaign to strengthen its conservation work for generations to come. 

The campaign, “From 40 to Forever,” will support the protection of high-priority properties, expand York Land Trust’s stewardship capacity, and build the infrastructure needed to sustain its growing responsibilities.

The campaign will ensure that the natural beauty, clean air and water, and biodiversity of York continue to be protected.  

Founded on August 26th, 1986, York Land Trust was started by a group of concerned local citizens, who understood the importance of protecting this truly special environment. These members of the community, including Ron Nowell, Lynn Eaton-Wylde, and Marion Fuller Brown, came together to protect key pieces of land. As the organization grew, more people joined the cause, including Helen Winebaum, who served as president and played a pivotal role in shaping York Land Trust into the organization it is today. This early action by members of the York community laid the foundation for 40 years of conservation, stewardship, and community. 

Four decades later, York Land Trust has grown to a staff of seven, supported by 720 households and more than 50 volunteers.

Today it protects 4,000 acres of land and stewards 15 miles of trails across our public preserves. York Land Trust also offers more than 100 free public nature-based programs per year, virtually and in person, connecting people throughout the community with the land it protects.  

“We are thrilled to be launching this capital campaign in tandem with our 40th anniversary,” said Amelia Nadilo, Executive Director of The York Land Trust. “This effort will help us protect more than 700 additional acres in the York community, strengthen our ability to care for our conserved lands, expand community access to nature, and invest in the long-term sustainability of the York Land Trust. It is an ambitious plan, but 40 years ago, so was the idea that a small local land trust could protect thousands of acres and become an integral part of this vibrant community. We have witnessed firsthand what is possible when this community comes together.” 

York Land Trust will host events and programs celebrating the organization’s history and looking toward its future. Community members will be invited to learn more about the “From 40 to Forever” campaign and York Land Trust’s vision for the next 40 years, and beyond. 

For more information, visit:

https://www.yorklandtrust.org/support/40th-anniversary-campaign/