Wednesday, Jul 10, 2024
MNA Applies for Renewal of Accreditation
Public Comment Period Open
The Michigan Nature Association (MNA) first achieved national accreditation through the Land Trust Accreditation Commission in 2014. In 2019, the Land Trust Accreditation Commission granted re-accreditation to MNA with “special commendations”, noting that MNA had made an “extraordinary commitment to excellence, permanence, and trust.” 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 summer.
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 Land Trust Alliance, there are approximately 1,281 active land trusts across the country. Just over 460 of these land trusts 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.
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 September 16th, 2024.