Land Preservation Serves All More Now Than Ever

If not us who, if not now when?

A famous quote made by John Lewis, a civil rights leader and more, is as pertinent today as when first said, even as it happens to relate to land preservation. I think it’s fair to say that most could agree we live in a time of shifting sand. Without getting into politics, religion, or other thorny issues, I’d like to pivot toward a unifying theme.

I suspect that most residents of Adams County live here out of choice. Certainly, there are some in our community that live here out of necessity. They may not be able to move, some may have family situations that require them to stay, others may do so specifically for employment, etc. For those of you who live here by choice, there are likely a multitude of reasons. Relative affordability, cute town, rural ambiance, the momma bear’s bed…close but not too close to urban environs, historical significance...to name but a few.

I strongly believe that most us, when asked to distill our reasons to their essence, would say we enjoy "the culture, the look, the feel…of the area and the community.” This is precisely where one important aspect of land preservation comes in. The culture - small town vibe; neighbors looking out for each other; the look - open, rural, agricultural; the feel - connected to the past, but with a vibrant, unique identity; make us who we are and why people wish to live, work and play in our marvelous county.

None of this happens by accident. Business owners, community and political leaders, and our general population work overtime to create a narrative that sets in motion an overarching template that we choose to maintain, augment and share with others. It forms the basis of our identity. And surely land preservation plays a major role.

Think more of “the look and feel” of Adams County. We drive about engaged in our daily routines easily taking for granted such idyllic surroundings. Visitors come here from far and wide to experience what it must have been and looked like many years ago when simpler, less developed, agrarian souls inhabited these parts. Nostalgia runs deep and is most enjoyed with doses of the real thing, not just thoughts.

My friends know I feel strongly that land preservation serves us all, in so many ways. I admit there must be balance between land preservation and proper land use/development. One cannot completely exist without the other. But, large numbers of communities have failed to create such a balance that serves their constituents and values. Many of our visitors come from such places where the rate of development far outstrips the rate of preservation. They come here to enjoy what they cannot in their own backyards. We are delighted to welcome them and share the beauty and benefits of our long-fought land preservation efforts.

So, kudos to us Adams Countians, for not letting our culture, look and feel erode over time. Our efforts are more important now than ever and work best if we all pull together. Our land preservation efforts result in permanent benefits that will enrich ours and all generations to come. It is truly one of the greatest goods we can do. I gratefully request you join our membership and help us in our continued efforts ensuring land preservation remains a critical value to us all in beautiful Adams County.

Dave Salisbury is the president of the board of directors of the Land Conservancy of Adams County. The Land Conservancy of Adams County is a fully accredited, member-supported, non-profit land trust with the mission to preserve the rural lands and character of Adams County.

photo by John Wood