This year, The Nature Conservancy is celebrating its 25th anniversary since opening a field office on Block Island. In 1991, the Conservancy, an international conservation organization, identified Block Island as a “Last Great Place” for its abundance of rare and endangered plants and animals, as well as its community’s uniquely strong support for conservation. It was this community-based conservation ethic that prompted The Nature Conservancy to put down roots in April of 1991 and invest in the future of the island and its nature.
Since its first land protection project on Block Island in 1972, The Nature Conservancy has partnered with island conservation organizations, federal and state agencies, and the Block Island community to protect open space on the island. Each year, as conservation keeps pace with development, the fruit of these efforts becomes increasingly apparent. Today, 46.2% of the island is protected in perpetuity, with over half of this land donated into conservation by Block Island landowners.
Over the last 25 years, The Nature Conservancy’s work on Block Island has grown and evolved to reflect current environmental and community needs, challenges, and opportunities. In addition to prioritizing land protection and restoration on the island, The Nature Conservancy’s efforts also include robust education and outreach programs and support for long-term science and research projects.
Looking forward towards the future of conservation on Block Island, The Nature Conservancy will continue collaborative efforts to protect threatened lands and preserve the natural character of the island, conduct marine research and restoration projects in the Great Salt Pond, strengthen nature education programs for the public and Block Island schoolchildren, and seek opportunities to share the 44 years of conservation experience gained on Block Island with budding conservation programs around the globe.
None of these conservation successes would be possible without the support of the Block Island community. The Nature Conservancy looks forward to celebrating with everyone this year!
•    Each Thursday this summer, join Chris Littlefield, The Nature Conservancy’s Block Island Director, for unique guided walks at various special locations around the island. Check the walk schedule on page B6  for details.
•    On July 19th at 6:30 p.m., all are invited to celebrate Block Island conservation on a cruise around the island aboard the Anna C. With the sun setting and a full moon rising, it will be a spectacular evening! A cash bar and complimentary hors d’oeuvres will be available. Tickets are on sale at bit.ly/BI25cruise ($25/adults; free/children 12 & under).