About CLT

The Catoctin Land Trust, (CLT) is a non-profit organization established in 2000. We commit ourselves to preserving forested and agricultural lands; protecting the quality and beauty of our rivers and streams; conserving historic landmarks and rural landscapes; and promoting the knowledge and values, which contribute to a healthy and sustainable future for our natural heritage and the communities we call home.

Through use of conservation easements (conservation agreement) or , land purchases and donations, the Catoctin Land Trust is working to reduce sprawl and redirect development pressures that are decreasing our forests, wildlife, farmland, and open space, while diminishing the quality of the waters which flow through and from these lands into the Chesapeake Bay. (CLT understands that growth is inevitable, however will encourage smart growth and revitalization in urban areas). The Trust is committed to working with landowners to address individual needs and circumstances in ways that best preserve their land and our common heritage.

We encourage, support, and create opportunities for education and research that heighten interest in land preservation and lead to a greater appreciation for the ecology of our area. We work in partnership with private landowners, public agencies, civic organizations, developers and others to place land in conservancy, ensuring that the natural beauty and ecological diversity of our region are protected.

We recognize the intense pressures on land and the rights of individual property owners. We believe that it is essential to preserve and promote the scenic, wildlife, fishery, recreational, watershed, scientific, and ecological values, and to perpetuate rural and agricultural areas for generations to come.  It has been proven that land values do not decrease when a conservation agreement is placed on your property. There is a strong market of conservation buyers who would like to have their own nature preserve.
In order to accomplish our mission, it is the objective of Catoctin Land Trust:

• To monitor land under easement to document conditions and inspect for violations;
• To legally defend land against violations of easement agreement;
• To educate the public about the value of protecting natural and historic resources;
• To encourage a conservation ethic among residents and visitors;
• To work with local communities to identify and preserve important resources;
• To raise funds to purchase open space for permanent preservation and conservation by the Trust or other qualified entities;
• To operate in compliance with the standards and practices of the Land Trust Alliance;