The Land Trust depends on a cadre of trained volunteers to visit each and every property, fee and easement, at least once a year. Monitors and Stewards have the opportunity to become familiar with a particular property, to ensure that the conservation values are protected and to serve as a resource for landowners and neighbors about the role of the Land Trust. To learn more about stewardship. 

• Property monitor – Lyme Land Trust (LLT) – walk the perimeter or boundary of a Lyme Land Trust property once a year – more if possible – and file a report. Please Contact Jim Arrigoni to learn more about this program.
• Preserve or trail steward – “Adopt” a Lyme Land Trust or Town of Lyme preserve or trail and gain a thorough knowledge and appreciation, monitor regularly (more than once a year), and help with maintenance and management. LLT property stewards file an annual report.  Please Contact Jim Arrigoni or Openspace@townlyme.org to learn more about this program.

Property Monitors and Stewards Qualifications:

• Willing to gain a thorough knowledge and appreciation of the property.
• Willing to participate in ongoing educational workshops necessary to learn about land stewardship practices and land management.
• Willing to use our web-based property database, Conservation Track.
• Willing to perform the duties described below.

General responsibilities:

• Monitor property annually, preferably more frequently if public access is allowed.
• Complete an annual online report of general observation regarding the conservation values of the property.
• Remove small trash
• Conduct basic trail maintenance on properties with public trails.
• Walk the properties and boundaries of conservation restriction areas (with landowner permission) or property boundaries (owned by the LLT).
• Assist with trail design and construction where appropriate.
• Act as a liaison between the LLT and property owners, neighbors and the community to help build strong, positive relationships.

Benefits

• Participate in workshops and events to help facilitate your stewardship and enhance your understanding of the ecology and management of the area.
• An opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Lyme while getting some exercise and meeting new people with a similar interest and commitment to conservation
• The knowledge that your volunteer time is essential to the success of the LLTs mission to protect open space in Lyme.To learn more about stewardship volunteer opportunities on Lyme land Trust and Town of Lyme preserves.