Strategic Priorities

The Chebeague & Cumberland Land Trust presents this 2023–2028 strategic plan building on three decades of conservation work in the communities of Chebeague Island and Cumberland. While our mission and overall goals remain steadfast, we acknowledge the need to respond and make adjustments to today’s challenges and emerging opportunities. In the face of climate change, unprecedented development pressure, rising cost of land, and the need to be more welcoming and inclusive for all, the Board of Directors has adopted these strategic priorities as the guiding blueprint to ensure CCLT’s organizational growth and progress over the next five years. CCLT will continue to foster existing relationships and partnerships, develop new ones, and to expand our capacity to have meaningful impact within our communities.


strategic priority #1

Protect and Care for Natural Resources in Our Communities

  • Expand and connect existing conserved parcels

  • Prioritize protection and management of high value conservation areas for habitat protection, climate resiliency, water quality, scenic viewsheds, recreation, and working farmland and waterfront

  • Engage community and volunteers in acquisition and care of our properties

  • Raise funds to support the purchase and long-term stewardship of properties


strategic priority #2

Expand Public Access to Nature, Recreation and Education

  • Assess and improve communications, signage, trails, infrastructure and events to facilitate better experiences on our protected properties and make all people feel welcome

  • Cultivate diverse and strategic partnerships to connect more people with nature

  • Design programs to increase awareness of natural systems and promote community engagement


  • Support working farms, forests, and waterfront

  • Nurture the next generation’s connection to nature

  • Balance development and conservation

strategic priority #3

Support Healthy, Sustainable Communities


  • Maintain high standard of practices and procedures

  • Ensure financial health of the organization

  • Support an active governing structure

  • Ensure a diverse, inclusive, and equitable culture within all aspects of CCLT operations

  • Retain staff and increase capacity with partnerships and volunteers

strategic priority #4

Build a Strong Organization to Achieve Our Goals