RLF HISTORY
Throughout its history, LLCT has worked closely with the Lincoln Conservation
Commission (founded in 1959) to conserve and protect Lincoln's land.
In the mid-1960's, Lincoln, characterized by a great deal of open space and high
property values was ripe for intensive development. A group of Lincoln residents
concerned about the potential impact of development in the small town formed the
Rural Land Foundation. They believed that creative land planning and financing
could generate limited development projects that created conservation value for
town residents and financial value for the property owners.
When the 100-acre Wheeler Farm came on the market in 1966, developers rushed
in with intensive development proposals. Eight RLF trustees joined with 30 Lincoln
residents, each individual guaranteeing up to $10,000 of a loan to the RLF. With
this backing, RLF purchased Wheeler Farm. RLF implemented a limited
development plan that protected the town's character.
In 1972, RLF acquired 71 acres of the Codman estate. This project created
affordable housing ("Lincoln Woods", in partnership with the Lincoln Foundation),
established significant conservation and recreation space (55 acres) and established
a commercial center under local control (Lincoln Station). Today the proceeds
from the commercial operation fund RLF's efforts to protect Lincoln's rural
character.
From its beginning, RLF was closely tied to LLCT. In 2008, the organizations
decided to merge their operations in order to achieve operational efficiencies.
LLCT is evolving from a volunteer run organization to one supported by staff, and
the boards of both organizations meet jointly to best coordinate their efforts in
support of Lincoln Land Conservation.
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| L I N C O L N L A N D C O N S E R V A T I O N |
| A partnership of the Lincoln Land Conservation Trust (LLCT) and the Rural Land Foundation of Lincoln (RLF) to protect the rural character of Lincoln, Massachusetts through land conservation, stewardship and education. |
