Friday, Feb 1, 2019

MNA Applies for Renewal of Accreditation

Public Comment Period Open Until April 15

The Michigan Nature Association (MNA) first achieved national accreditation through the Land Trust Accreditation Commission in 2014. The accreditation program recognizes land conservation organizations that meet national quality standards and practices for protecting important natural places and working lands forever.  To maintain accreditation status, MNA must renew every five years, and we are pleased to announce that we are applying for renewal of accreditation this spring.

The Land Trust Accreditation Commission, an independent program of the Land Trust Alliance, will conduct an independent review of MNA’s policies and programs to confirm that we continue to meet the highest quality ethical and technical operation standards of a land trust. As part of the application process, a public comment period is now open.

“Maintaining accreditation is one of the many ways MNA is committed to conservation excellence,” said Garret Johnson, MNA’s Executive Director. “It means our conservation work and business practices meet the highest professional standards within the national land trust community. Earning the accreditation seal, a true mark of distinction, speaks volumes to our members, donors, and the public about our ability to uphold their trust and protect important natural lands forever.”

According to the last Land Trust Alliance census in 2016, there are approximately 1,400 land trusts across the country.  Just over 400, or about 29%, have achieved or renewed accreditation.  This network of land trusts have demonstrated fiscal accountability, strong organizational leadership, sound land transactions, and lasting stewardship of the lands they conserve, according to the Land Trust Accreditation Commission.

The Commission invites public input and accepts signed, written comments on pending renewal applications.  Comments must relate to how MNA complies with national quality standards.  For the full list of standards, click here.  

To Submit Comments on MNA’s Application

To learn more about the accreditation program and to submit a comment regarding MNA, visit www.landtrustaccreditation.org, or email your comment to info@landtrustaccreditation.org.  Comments may also be faxed or mailed to the Land Trust Accreditation Commission, Attn:  Public Comments: (fax) 518-587-3183; (mail) 36 Phila Street, Suite 2, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Comments on MNA’s application will be most useful by April 15.