BELGRADE LAKES — 7 Lakes Alliance was recently recognized as a nationally accredited organization, joining a network of more than 400 accredited land trusts across the nation.
The 7 Lakes Alliance conserves the land and water of the Belgrade Lakes region in order to protect the water quality, wildlife, recreation and natural beauty that sustain communities and economy. The Land Trust Accreditation Commission, an independent program that recognizes and ensures national quality standards of excellence for protecting natural places and working land, recognized the alliance Feb. 25.
“Accreditation recognizes 7 Lakes Alliance’s commitment to achieving the highest possible standards as we permanently protect special lands in the Belgrade Lakes watershed,” said Laura Rose Day, president & CEO. “7 Lakes Alliance is stronger and more effective for having gone through the rigorous accreditation program. This strengthens our work with landowners and other partners to forever protect the special places of the Belgrade Lakes – such as the Kennebec Highlands – making Maine and this region an even greater place for us and our grandchildren.”
7 Lakes Alliance provided extensive documentation and was subject to a comprehensive third-party evaluation prior to achieving this distinction. The Land Trust Accreditation Commission awarded accreditation, signifying its confidence that 7 Lakes Alliance’s lands will be protected forever. The process is rigorous and strengthens systems that help landowners and communities achieve their goals.
7 Lakes has helped protect nearly 10,000 acres of forest, agricultural land, ponds, streams and wetlands in the Belgrade Lakes region in partnership with private landowners, towns, federal agencies and the state. This ranges from leading the effort to protect the Kennebec Highlands to helping families conserve the land that contributes to the unique region. By strategically conserving high priority natural resources, 7 Lakes provides water quality protection, wildlife habitat, and recreational opportunities for the benefit and enjoyment of the public.
PHOTO: Full moon hike, French Mountain in Rome. (Submitted photo)
