It's All About Good Planning:
An update on ED Transition

There's a common need shared by every organization and business no matter how large or small. That need is effective succession planning. Without planning for the inevitable change of leadership, major companies fail, family-owned businesses break apart and family land is divided, converted and lost. As an accredited land trust, we are bound to protect the lands that owners have trusted us to protect forever. So planning ahead is fundamental to us.  

That's why I was determined to ensure that the next Executive Director of the Cacapon & Lost Rivers Land Trust was set up for success. Working together with our dedicated Board and our advisors, the stage is set for Emily Warner, our next Executive Director. We've charted an organizational strategy and during the last month, we've worked with Emily to ensure a smooth transition and inspiring lift off.

Of course, it's not easy to plan for your own departure, to give up something you love, whether it's running a land trust or running the family farm. It's why so many landowners and business leaders don't do what's necessary.  Yet, the best way to protect the progress you've made and the successes you've had is to plan well for the one who will replace you.

And with Emily, it's been pretty easy! Emily grew up in the Cacapon watershed and learned the rather complex business of land protection through her work for the Hampshire County Farm Protection Board, The Nature Conservancy, and most recently as Senior Director of Land Conservation with the Potomac Conservancy. She knows how to protect land with the skill and spirit that it takes to get the job done. We're all thrilled she's taking over the reins, and I'll rest easier in retirement knowing that the Cacapon & Lost Rivers Land Trust is in good hands. Welcome Emily!

I want to thank all the landowners who allowed me the privilege of walking your land and working together to protect what you love most about the Cacapon watershed. It's been an honor. And I leave with the hope that many, many more landowners in our beautiful watershed will come forward and work with Emily to permanently protect their land through a conservation easement.

To the partners I've worked with, and to the Board of Directors, your expertise, support and dedication will always be remembered.

Thank you.
Jennifer Jones
Executive Director

Welcome to our New
Executive Director!

Join us in welcoming Emily Warner as the Cacapon & Lost Rivers Land Trust's new Executive Director. Emily is succeeding Jennifer Jones, who is retiring. Emily grew up in the Cacapon watershed and most recently was the Senior Director of Land Conservation at the Potomac Conservancy.

Read more about Emily