The Damariscotta River Association has announced that it is applying for accreditation from the Land Trust Accreditation Commission. The land trust accreditation program recognizes land conservation organizations that meet national quality standards for protecting important natural places and working lands forever. A public comment period is now open.

The Land Trust Accreditation Commission, an independent program of the Land Trust Alliance, conducts an extensive review of each applicant’s policies and programs. The Damariscotta River Association is seeking accreditation in order to confirm that it is maintaining the highest standards and that its policies and procedures conform to “best practices.”

The Commission invites public input and accepts signed, written comments on pending applications. Comments must relate to how the Damariscotta River Association complies with national quality standards. These standards address the ethical and technical operation of a land trust. For the full list of standards see http://landtrustaccreditation.org/tips-and-tools/indicator-practices  

To learn more about the accreditation program and to submit a comment, visit www.landtrust accreditation.org or email you comment to info@landtrustaccreditation.org. Comments may also be faxed or mailed to the Land Trust Accreditation Commission, Attn: Public Comments: (fax) 518-587-3183; (mail) 36 Phila Street, Suite 2, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Comments on the Damariscotta River Association’s application will be most helpful if received by October 28, 2013.