Davidson Lands Conservancy was recognized as the “Outstanding Community Partner” at the 22nd annual Celebration of Service at Davidson College. The event was held on April 19 and hosted by the college’s Center for Civic Engagement, which recognized students, faculty, staff, alumni, student groups, and community members for “exemplary service and civic contributions to our local and global communities.”

The event celebrated those who go above and beyond to make a positive impact on Davidson and surrounding communities.

The Outstanding Community Partner award recognized DLC’s commitment to a strong, mutually beneficial relationship with Davidson College for community betterment. For DLC, the award stems from effective partnerships with students, faculty, and staff.

Recent student interns include Anna Sharpe, Michael Yen, David Hagler, and Collier Ballard, who all advanced the Conservancy’s programs in important ways, along with professors Brad Johnson, Chris Paradise, and Mark Stanback.

“I feel more confident in myself through the opportunity to participate in DLC as a real-world nonprofit, and I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity,” said DLC Board member and student Ty Cryan, who attended the event.

DLC Board President Paul Freestone, who accepted the award, said, “DLC works hard to provide a high-quality experience for students, including opportunities for leadership, as well as learning.”

Recent conservation initiatives enhanced by DLC’s partnership with the college include re-wilding Fisher Farm, analysis of the planned stream restoration project for the West Branch, the launch of the Treasure Tree project, and wildlife habitat initiatives.

Davidson Lands Conservancy is a fully accredited land trust with the mission to conserve local lands and natural resources, connect lives to nature, and promote a conservation ethic.  DLC advances its mission through education and through four conservation priorities: land conservation and stewardship; greenways and trails; urban forestry; and wildlife habitat.

The growth pressures on the Davidson area are staggering, and while economic development benefits our community, balancing growth with conserved land and natural areas is critical to our quality of life and to keeping Davidson special, attractive, and healthy.