Marking 35 Years of Conservation, Restoration, and Stewardship
- Matthew Heim
- Aug 12
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 13
This year marks a remarkable milestone for the Lower Shore Land Trust: 35 years of protecting the natural beauty, wildlife, and rural heritage of Maryland’s Lower Eastern Shore!

From our beginnings in 1990 as a small, grassroots effort to safeguard open spaces, we have grown into a strong, community-driven organization that has permanently protected over 24,000 acres of forests, farms, wetlands, and scenic landscapes, growing to become the 2nd largest land trust in the State of Maryland. Along the way, we’ve nurtured partnerships, restored habitats, and inspired generations to connect with the land.

Our journey has been shaped by people like you, landowners, volunteers, donors, and community members who share a passion for conserving what makes our region so special. Together, we’ve:
Preserved critical habitats for migratory birds, pollinators, and endangered species
Supported working farms that keep our rural traditions alive
Created trails and public spaces that invite everyone to enjoy the outdoors
Planted thousands of native plants supporting diverse ecosystems across the Lower Shore
Looking ahead, our mission is more vital than ever. As the Lower Shore faces pressures from development and climate change, we remain committed to thoughtful land conservation, community engagement, and environmental stewardship that will help keep the Lower Shore rural for generations to come so that others may enjoy this treasure.

We invite you to join us in celebrating this milestone year. Whether you attend a special anniversary event like this year’s Flannel Formal, take part in a volunteer project, or simply get outside to enjoy the lands we’ve protected together, your participation honors the past and strengthens our future.
Here’s to the next 35 years of conservation, collaboration, and community. Thank you for being part of the Lower Shore Land Trust story!
Happy Birthday, LSLT!