News
Last week, I had the honor of representing CLCC at Rally, the National Land Conservation Conference. In addition to attending workshops and networking with fellow conservationists, I had the privilege to co-lead both a field trip and workshop on the topic climate-smart land stewardship, and to lead a second workshop focused on mergers.
Rally provided a powerful reminder of how CLCC is at the forefront of addressing pressing conservation issues.
Our Climate Smart Land Stewardship Program is setting a standard for how land trusts can adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change, building resilience across landscapes throughout Connecticut. Similarly, CLCC’s leadership in guiding land trust mergers has resulted in successful models that are being recognized and replicated across the country.
It was inspiring to see how our efforts are helping to shape the national conversation on conservation. At CLCC, we’re not just responding to challenges—we’re leading the way, ensuring that land trusts in Connecticut and beyond are well-positioned to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.
My experience at Rally reaffirmed the vital role that CLCC plays in the conservation community. As we continue to advocate for innovative solutions and collaborative approaches, we remain dedicated to elevating and strengthening land conservation in Connecticut.
I am proud to be part of an organization at the forefront of land conservation efforts. Thank you for your continued support of CLCC.
Staff Thoughts…
Amy Blaymore Paterson, Executive Director: “As always, my favorite part of attending Rally is the opportunity to connect with colleagues and friends whom I have known for years while also meeting new people who are just entering the field of land conservation. It’s inspiring and energizing, not to mention a lot of fun. My experience in Providence was no exception.”
Aaron Lefland, Deputy Director: “Leading a field trip and workshops was an incredibly rewarding experience, allowing me to not only share knowledge but also connect with and learn from inspiring co-presenters from all over New England. Another highlight was the State Association Meeting, where CLCC had the chance to engage with peer organizations from across the country. These conversations are always energizing, sparking new ideas and strategies to better support land trusts at home.”
Jovan Bryan, Community Conservation Coordinator: “Every Rally has put me in a new position to learn and connect with peers in the space. This Rally I was asked to be a mentor for one of the Scholars for Conservation Leadership Program, which was my highlight. Being able to share the knowledge and experiences I have collected in my Community Conservation work with an eager, insightful young professional early in their conservation journey, reignited the passion I have for connecting more people to what spaces like Rally have to offer.”
Ricky Bentley, Smart Stewardship Coordinator: “Attending Rally for the first time was overwhelming in the most positive of ways, it felt like every day, every workshop, and every conversation was brimming with information and connection. One highlight was helping lead a field trip and share some of the scenery and amazing work going on in our state with attendees from across the country. Getting to interact with folks from other states and compare our challenges and opportunities was enlightening and exciting. I’m already looking forward to attending my next Rally!”
We extend a heartfelt thank you to our generous partners—Aspetuck Land Trust, Avalonia Land Conservancy, Joshua’s Trust, and Northwest Connecticut Land Conservancy—for facilitating the Connecticut Cocktail Hour at Rally.
View more photos from the Connecticut Cocktail Hour at Rally
Tags: Rally