On Sunday, April 13th, the South Kingstown Land Trust held its 31st annual meeting at the Land Trust Barn in Matunuck. Over 100 members-a record number-came out to vote in a new slate of Board members and the new bylaws drafted in preparation for our application for accreditation.
Highlights of the meeting included an address made by Senator Sheldon Whitehouse regarding the status of Federal tax credits for conservation easements so necessary to our mission. The Senator also spoke about efforts in Congress to address climate change with real and lasting legislation.
Rudi Hempe, coordinator of the two chestnut orchards, presented the land trust with a handmade gavel made from old chestnut wood. Hempe also gave an update on the two orchards and the near readiness to re-establish chestnut trees in local forests in the future.
Board President, Michael Sherry then dedicated the newest SKLT trail to former Grist Mill owners, Bob and Diane Smith. A beautiful plaque dedicating the “Jonnycake Trail” was placed at the start of the trail in the field at Weeden Farm. The trail will be completed shortly.
The meeting was adjourned and all guests were invited back inside the Barn for refreshments.
