Charlestown's Land Trust, the South County Conservancy, needs your financial support before the end of the year.

As you know, our primary mission is to preserve land in Charlestown and the need continues to grow. More and more landowners now see land conservation as an important and viable option. And, local funding sources are stepping up to help. We secured $525,000 in grants for the pending acquisition of development rights to a local farm and generated $200,000 in private donations for purchase of a 16 acre parcel which will be conserved and open to the public.

In addition, we have created a vibrant and meaningful way for the community to come together in our new Farmer's Market. Every week during the summer months, many join together to celebrate what our local land and waters can provide us: fresh vegetables, seafood, and other tasty food. Farmers' market vendors protect over 300 acres of open space and generate over $30,000 for the local economy. All summer long, we also have the pleasure of seeing friends and farmers. The Farmer's Market has been successful beyond any of our expectations.

Finally, more and more of us are learning through walks and programs about the nature around us. Programs were held around Town throughout the year and included environmental education training for over 400 K-12 students, wildlife protection field training (with USFWS) for eighty local 6-8th graders, and sponsorship of two Boy Scouts of America Eagle Scout Candidate projects at Mill Pond Preserve. And, neighbors and friends have come forward to join our Board. We have established a volunteer group at Chariho Middle School and a University of Rhode Island intern program where SCC board members mentor the next generation of land conservationists.

But, all of this requires leadership, attention, coordination, nurturing and financial support. That's where we need your help. Our needs are modest, but our impact on the community is significant. To continue our work, we need to raise $15,000 by year end.

Gifts to this campaign of over $200 will receive a 10% "Green Bucks" award to be used at next year's farmers market.

Please dig deep, support your community, and accept the enclosed "ice scraper" as a small token of our appreciation. The beautiful scene is of protected open space. With your continued support, beauty like this will be preserved for all time.

Sincerely,

John Jackson

President