As a land trust, MCF’s objective is to facilitate how a property will be best preserved and utilized so the public-at-large benefits. We partner with local, state, and federal governments and liaise with landowners to enable the various steps in the land preservation process – ultimately leading to the preservation of land through fee acquisition or an easement. Each opportunity is unique and handled on a case-by-case basis. MCF is a critical part of the equation, as we can act swiftly and impartially, free from government bureaucracy and political constraints. Our role is sometimes imperceptible in facilitating land preservation projects, while at other times we are the prominent driving force. In every instance, for land preservation to be successful, we must be supported by funding and through critical partnerships.

The road to preservation entails a great deal of negotiation and paperwork. Steps are achieved in varying order across projects, and must address a range of considerations and details for the property, including:

Alignment with MCF mission
Public benefit(s)
Impact(s) of Preservation
Property characteristics
- Conservation, agricultural, recreational, educational /or historical
- Proximity to already preserved property
Landowner goal(s)
Preservation method
Acquisition costs
Monitoring/Stewardship requirements
Timeline
Willing partner(s)
- Alignment with municipal and/or public agency goals
- Stakeholder support
Funding
Eligibility and availability