The Land Trust depends on a cadre of trained volunteers to visit each and every property, fee and easement, at least once a year. Monitors and Stewards have the opportunity to become familiar with a particular property, to ensure that the conservation values are protected and to serve as a resource for landowners and neighbors about the role of the Land Trust. To learn more about stewardship. 

• Property monitor – Lyme Land Trust (LLT) – walk the perimeter or boundary of a Lyme Land Trust property once a year – more if possible – and file a report. Please Contact Stewardship@LymeLandTrust.org to learn more about this program.
• Preserve or trail steward – “Adopt” a Lyme Land Trust or Town of Lyme preserve or trail and gain a thorough knowledge and appreciation, monitor regularly (more than once a year), and help with maintenance and management. LLT property stewards file an annual report.  Please Contact Stewardship@LymeLandTrust.org  or Openspace@townlyme.org to learn more about this program.

Property Monitors and Stewards Qualifications:

• Willing to gain a thorough knowledge and appreciation of the property.
• Willing to participate in ongoing educational workshops necessary to learn about land stewardship practices and land management.
• Willing to use our web-based property database, Conservation Track.
• Willing to perform the duties described below.

General responsibilities:

• Monitor property annually, preferably more frequently if public access is allowed.
• Complete an annual online report of general observation regarding the conservation values of the property.
• Remove small trash
• Conduct basic trail maintenance on properties with public trails.
• Walk the properties and boundaries of conservation restriction areas (with landowner permission) or property boundaries (owned by the LLT).
• Assist with trail design and construction where appropriate.
• Act as a liaison between the LLT and property owners, neighbors and the community to help build strong, positive relationships.

Benefits

• Participate in workshops and events to help facilitate your stewardship and enhance your understanding of the ecology and management of the area.
• An opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Lyme while getting some exercise and meeting new people with a similar interest and commitment to conservation
• The knowledge that your volunteer time is essential to the success of the LLTs mission to protect open space in Lyme.

 Please Contact Stewardship@LymeLandTrust.org to learn more about this program.