Orton Foundation partner The North Carolina Coastal Land Trust is celebrating its 25th year anniversary this September. To date they have saved/protected 68,000 acres in eastern North Carolina – a feat that would have been inconceivable a quarter century ago.
What did its founders envision for the Coastal Land Trust when it was first founded? Read these remarks first published on their Facebook Page.
“I modeled it on the private conservation easement work done in SC’s ACE basin, which was similar to the Cape Fear basin. I didn’t think much beyond that.” –Camilla Herlevich, Executive Director
“I was hopeful that it would have an impact, but did not imagine that the organization would grow to what it is today.” -Michael Murchison, Founder
“My hope was that it would be successful in protecting some locally significant natural areas without having to get into major fundraising at the grass roots level. Camilla was successful in quickly expanding the vision beyond my limited view.” –Bill Raney, Founder
“…I optimistically knew that if anyone could successfully establish a regional land trust for coastal NC it would be her. I loved her concept, and well imagined that it could be marvelously successful under Camilla’s leadership – and it was!” –Chuck Roe, Founder
To Camilla and team – a huge congratulations!
Learn more about The North Carolina Coastal Land Trust here.