Dear Friends and Members,

With the Loring campaign completed, the NLC has been able to spend more time on a number of other core goals. But conservation restrictions are still high on our list. CRs can protect land while at the same time making it possible for owners to retain their property. In this way scenic views, family farms, wildlife habitat and clean water can be preserved for the benefit of all, and the land can still be sold or bequeathed to heirs.
This year was especially significant because Congress increased tax benefits for CR donors. We recorded six new agreements, which bring our current protected land total to well over one thousand acres. It is because of the generosity of so many of you that we have beautiful walks and vistas to enjoy, and that our island retains much of its exceptional charm and character.

We continue to be strong advocates for the environment. Educating the community has always been key. Change is inevitable, but it may be for the better when citizens are informed and engaged. For that reason we regularly review, report, and comment on development proposals that come before our local Planning Board and Conservation Commission. We also keep track of articles at our Town Meeting, and ballot initiatives during our elections. By providing sound advice and scientific evidence we can help our community make thoughtful decisions for the island’s future.

Our original motto, “Planning, Protecting, Preserving” still applies to today’s challenges. From clean drinking water, to wildlife habitat, to endangered species, to a healthy local fishery, the NLC is prepared to defend Nantucket’s natural resources. I hope that during my tenure as president, NLC will continue to fill this vital community role. With your support we will be able to do so for many years to come.

Thank you all for being part of this important work. Thanks also to our board, and to our staff of four: Cormac Collier, Lynn Zimmerman, Emily MacKinnon, and Elisabeth Hazell. Their hard work has reinforced our solid standing in the community. We owe much of our success to their intelligence and professionalism.

Sincerely,

Karen Borchert,
President