Wildlands Trust Inc.

“Conservation easements are included in the organization's collections and are not recorded in the financial statements as permitted by accounting standards. As a result, conservation easements contributed to the organization are not included in revenues. Costs incurred to inspect and maintain the organization's conservation easements are recorded in the financial statements as expenses.”

“Conservation property is not capitalized on the statements of financial position in accordance with accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations, since it qualifies as a collection that is held for public exhibition, education and research in furtherance of public service rather than financial gain. It is also protected, kept unencumbered, cared for and preserved, and it is subject to an organizational policy that requires the proceeds from sales of conservation property to be used to acquire other such property. However, conservation property is sometimes acquired on the condition that it is to be transferred to town, state or federal agencies to be held by them for conservation purposes. Purchases and sales of conservation property are recorded as conservation property acquisition expense and proceeds from the sale of conservation property, respectively, on the statements of activities.”

“The collection at wildlands trust, inc. Is comprised of large tracts of conservation land, including any improvements, that are monitored, protected, and managed for the benefit of wildlife and the general public. Approximately 4,176 acres of land in our collection is owned in fee by wildlands trust, inc. While an additional 3,087 acres is privately held properties upon which the trust holds conservation restrictions, deed restrictions and agricultural preservation restrictions. The land in our collection is located throughout the southeastern region of massachusetts, an area facing rapid growth and development and thus requiring the services of a strong regional land trust. Each parcel brought into the wildlands trust, inc. Collection has been strategically selected because it possesses important characteristics linked to public benefit. For example, a parcel may provide for the protection of drinking water, air quality, or wildlife habitat. Certain parcels in the collection are held because they offer important public recreation opportunities such as hiking, biking, bird watching, canoeing or nature study. Other parcels may be selected to protect a view shed or historic or archeological resources. In all cases, a property is brought into the collection only if it serves to further the mission of wildlands trust, inc”

“The organization's endowment includes both donor restricted and board-designated funds. These amounts are held in various investment vehicles so that the related income can be used in accordance with donor wishes.”

“Protection of natural resources and passive recreation.”