5 Year Strategic Plan
Protecting the Places We Call Home: Our Plan for a Greener Future
The green spaces, fertile farms, and vital waterways of Licking and neighboring counties are a shared treasure worth safeguarding forever. At the Licking Land Trust, we are driven by a simple, powerful belief: our natural heritage is irreplaceable.
This is more than just a document; it’s our action plan—a strategic commitment to expand our protected lands, deepen community connections, and build a lasting, powerful foundation so that nature can flourish for every generation.
We are working alongside landowners, local leaders, and citizens like you to turn the vision of a resilient, thriving natural landscape into reality. Dive into our strategy to see the mission we share, the principles that guide our every step, and how your future is woven into this plan.
Our Guiding Principles: How We Make a Difference
These are the core values that fuel our work and guide every decision we make:
Stewardship: We are the thoughtful guardians of Ohio's natural treasures. With unwavering commitment, we responsibly manage and protect the lands entrusted to our care, ensuring their long-term health and vitality for all. This dedication extends to every resource, both environmental and financial.
Respect: We build bridges, not walls. We celebrate the diverse perspectives, unique contributions, and rich cultures within our community. By fostering an environment where every individual feels valued and heard, we create stronger relationships and more impactful conservation.
Engagement: We believe in the power of community. Our decisions are rooted in the well-being of Licking and neighboring counties of Central Ohio, prioritizing environmental health, enhancing quality of life, and strengthening our collective connection to the land. Through proactive collaboration and partnership, we ensure vital resources are available for today and for every tomorrow.
Conservation: We stand as steadfast defenders of natural landscapes, committed to safeguarding wildlife habitats, protecting vital ecosystems, and preserving the active agricultural lands that nourish us and define the beauty of our environment.
Integrity: Trust is the cornerstone of our work. We operate with the highest ethical standards, fostering transparent collaboration with our community partners, landowners, and all stakeholders to build a future we can all believe in.
Our Strategic Commitments: Investing in Tomorrow
To ensure the enduring success of our mission, the Licking Land Trust is focused on four vital strategic priorities. These are the cornerstones of our work, driving us toward a future where nature and community thrive hand-in-hand.
Strategic Priority #1: Expanding Our Protected Lands – Growing the Green Tapestry
We are actively identifying and protecting the most vital green spaces in Licking and neighboring counties. This means strategically acquiring easements that safeguard natural beauty, critical habitats, and productive agricultural lands, ensuring their protection forever.
Strategic Priority #2: Igniting Community Connection – Spreading the Word, Growing Our Family
We are reaching out, building relationships, and sharing the profound benefits of land conservation with individuals, families and organizations in Licking and neighboring counties. We want to inspire individuals, families, and organizations to join us in protecting the places we all love.
Strategic Priority #3: Building a Strong Foundation – Powering Our Purpose
To achieve our ambitious goals, we are building a robust and effective organization. This means strengthening our team, streamlining our operations, and ensuring we have the right people in the right roles to maximize our impact.
Strategic Priority #4: Securing Our Future – Fueling the Green Revolution
Sustainable funding is the bedrock of lasting conservation. We are diversifying our funding sources, cultivating strong relationships with donors, and exploring innovative ways to ensure the financial health of the Licking Land Trust for generations to come.