As I ponder my first message as President of the Nevada County Land Trust, I can’t help but think of the progress and maturation the NCLT has experienced under the leadership of our four past presidents, Steve Lund, Dave Palley, David Wright and Jim Dodds. Much of the success over these past few years is directly due to their personal efforts in coordination with the work of our talented Executive Director, Cheryl Belcher, and with the support of an able and hard working volunteer base led by a strong and energetic Board of Directors.

It is impressive that the NCLT has attracted such diverse community members to its Board. The present Board of Directors includes some long term native born Nevada "Countyians" and newcomers.

There are lawyers, and an educator, architects, engineers, urban planners, a forest management executive, forest consultant, real estate sales and appraiser, rector of the Episcopal Church, business and finance including an international banker, former CEOs from Silicon Valley, farm bureau manager, CEO of a local engineering firm with offices worldwide, building materials firm owner and other well-known community members dedicated to the goals of the Nevada County Land Trust. There is social, economic and political diversity, as well.

The common bond for this Board and its Executive Director is working with private property owners who wish to preserve their property for specific purposes, such as conservation easements for agricultural use, wildlife and bird habitat — or for public recreation, such as trails and parks. These gifts of easements or fee ownership benefit the donors and are unique assets for Nevada County.

We certainly welcome the involvement of all like-thinking souls. It is easy to join us. Hard work aplenty for the energetic among us with some time available. Many pleasurable avenues to explore — and a great sense of personal accomplishment in participating to make our county a true "destination" for happy and healthy living.