American Land Conservancy
The mission of American Land Conservancy is to conserve land for the benefit of people and wildlife.
American Land Conservancy is a non-profit land conservation organization dedicated to protecting America’s natural heritage by conserving land for the benefit of people and wildlife. Since 1990 ALC has conserved more than 276,000 acres (1,120 km2) of land and water resources, working farms and ranches, and wildlife habitat, nationwide.
In its first 15 years, ALC pursued projects based on the opportunities at-hand, tackling projects across the country. Their work is now focused on the following regional landscape programs:
The organizations 'conservations ethic includes the following principles:
Direct Purchase – ALC works with landowners who wish to sell or donate their exceptional land for conservation by finding a public agency or conservation buyer to own and manage the land permanently. Funding for acquisition can come from state or federal appropriations, philanthropic foundations or individuals. Sample projects: BK Leach Memorial Conservation Area #MO#, Crow Creek Falls #MT#, High Meadows #NV#.
Conservation Easement – A conservation easement is a legal agreement between a landowner and a land trust or government agency that permanently limits uses of the land in order to protect its conservation values. It allows the landowner to continue to own and use the land and sell it or pass it on to heirs subject to the restrictions of the easement. ALC often works with a conservation partner who holds and monitors the easement. Sample projects include the Hearst Ranch #CA#, (in conjunction with the California Rangeland Trust), Bridgeport Valley #CA#, Kaskaskia Island #IL#.
Acquisition of Surface or Sub-surface Rights - Sometimes the surface of a landscape is protected, but a company or individual owns the assets on top #timber#, or underneath the surface #mining, water, natural gas#. ALC acquires these rights to prevent development and habitat destruction in pivotal landscapes. Sample projects: Bodie State Historic Park #CA#, Denali National Park #AK#, Valles Caldera #NM#.
The genesis of American Land Conservancy can be traced to founder Harriet Burgess' first trip down the Grand Canyon. The trip guide was the legendary Martin Litton, founder of Grand Canyon Dories, editor for Sunset Magazine, and as described by David Brower, "conscience of the Sierra Club." Martin inspired her to see the natural world as never before.
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