Strategic conservation planning allows land trusts to build a framework to make effective decisions regarding conservation projects. Organizations that have strategic conservation plans (SCPs) conserve more than twice the total amount of acres, more than three times the amount of conservation easements, and almost three times the number of fee properties*.  

 

An SCP is different from an organizational strategic plan. While they both focus on setting measurable goals that meet the organization's mission, an SCP focuses specifically on land acquisition. Implementing and utilizing an SCP helps the organization to say “yes” or “no” to projects. It reduces board member conflicts and streamlines the land acquisition process.  

 

There are 3 main components to an SCP. The first is prioritization of goals. By stating the land acquisition goals and priorities the organization will have a better vision of where they want to go. This provides a framework for the next component, mapping conservation hotspots. Using geographical systems information (GIS) organizations can produce maps that show where efforts and resources should be focused. The last key component of an SCP is the action plan and policies. This is where the organization develops a 3-5 year plan of how to meet the organization's goals. It is also where the policies are built and implemented to streamline project selection. 

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Red-tail Land Conservancy needed an SCP. The SCP developed through this process will make them a more effective and efficient organization. Land trusts that work and focus on strategic priorities and have a strong vision raise more funds and protect land more efficiently than those who jump at any opportunity*. Having an SCP helps Red-tail achieve the first, and avoid the latter.   

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As the Strategic Conservation Plan Consultant for Red-tail I built a "Priority Conservation Areas" map, revised outdated land acquisition policies, designed and implemented a Stakeholder Survey, and developed a final SCP document. 

 

*Data from the 2005 National Land Trust Census by the Land Trust Alliance.