Sonoma Land Trust meets high national standards for excellence–again!

Sonoma Land Trust recognized for excellence by Land Trust Alliance

Sonoma Land Trust is proud to announce that it has once again met the highest national standards for excellence in land conservation, earning renewed accreditation from the Land Trust Accreditation Commission, the independent organization that oversees the financial, ethical, and operational practices of land trusts across the country.

This recognition reflects our enduring commitment to protecting the open, natural, and working lands and waters of Sonoma County for current and future generations. Through strong governance and fiscal responsibility, Sonoma Land Trust continues to meet the rigorous
standards required for national accreditation.

Following an extensive review by the Land Trust Accreditation Commission—an independent program of the Land Trust Alliance—Sonoma Land Trust’s accreditation has officially been renewed, underscoring our dedication to conservation excellence and long-term stewardship.

Originally accredited in 2013, this latest renewal highlights our ongoing commitment to accountability, transparency, and the highest standards of conservation practice. The rigorous accreditation process evaluates land trusts across key areas, including land stewardship,
financial management, and organizational governance.

Renewed accreditation is one of the most meaningful ways we demonstrate to our supporters, partners, and community that we take our mission seriously. Accredited land trusts must uphold national best practices that ensure responsible land care, strong leadership, and lasting conservation outcomes.

The Commission recognized Sonoma Land Trust’s leadership and innovation, stating:

“Sonoma Land Trust has made an extraordinary commitment to operational excellence, trust, and permanence in land conservation. The Commission especially recognizes Sonoma Land Trust for its leadership role in the creation of the Sonoma Valley Wildlands Collaborative and its overall focus on reducing wildfire risk and improving forest health in response to the catastrophic wildfires of 2017, 2019, and 2020 in Sonoma County.”

We are deeply honored to continue being part of a nationally accredited network of conservation leaders. Accreditation validates the trust our communities place in us and strengthens our ability to protect Sonoma County’s most vital landscapes.

“Earning accreditation through the Land Trust Alliance is more than a badge—it’s a mark of excellence that assures our community, donors, and Grantmakers that we meet the highest national standards for land conservation,” says Eamon O’Byrne, executive director of Sonoma Land Trust. “This rigorous, independent review process affirms our commitment to ethical conduct, sound finances, and lasting stewardship. When you invest in an accredited land trust, you can be confident your support is making a durable, credible impact.”

Discover how Sonoma Land Trust uses nature-based solutions to tackle climate change and protect biodiversity—right here in Sonoma County. Explore our work and see the solutions in action at www.sonomalandtrust.org