October 2004: The Washtenaw Land Trust is committed to making a difference in land protection for the long-term and to getting ahead of the accelerating pace of land use change affecting our region's natural lands and farm lands. Thus, the Washtenaw Land Trust is pleased to announce changes in staff leadership, in approach, and in new alliances.

First, staff: The former director, Bill Hanson, has departed and the Washtenaw Land Trust wishes him well. The land trust is pleased to announce that Wayne Say has joined the organization as interim executive director. Wayne brings 35 years of experience as a leader of a variety of environmental initiatives, in the private sector, with non-profits, and with the University of Michigan School of Natural Resources and Environment. His breadth of experience and commitment to land protection will help the organization navigate the transitions it needs to accomplish. The other talented and motivated people on the land trust staff will continue to make a difference in conservation work-development director Janaé Reneaud and administrative director Suzie Heiney.

Next, as a leader, the land trust's approach needs to be even more outgoing and engaged. As a non-profit organization, the land trust has distinct qualities. It is positive and proactive, and it is private (and therefore nimble) and personal (working only with those interested in preserving land). The land trust has begun to identify how its activities can be more energetic, creative and effective. To that end, for example, we are planning our first-ever capital campaign, which aims to raise funds that will leverage a federal grant for farmland development rights.

Last, the land trust is exploring new alliances. The Washtenaw Land Trust understands that it is not enough to react to land/easement offers. While we will always be responsive to potential land donors, to make a difference, we will explore partnerships and collaboration wherever it makes sense and results in land conservation gains. We will partner with the counties, townships and cities in doing so. We will seek creative solutions and work diligently toward conservation success.

About the Washtenaw Land Trust:
The Washtenaw Land Trust is a non-profit organization that works to protect farmland, natural areas and open space throughout Washtenaw County and the surrounding region, and to educate members, local officials and the public on land use issues.

For more information, contact the Washtenaw Land Trust at info@washtenawlandtrust.org or 734-302-LAND(5263).