Dear Friend,

As we begin another busy year at Lancaster Farmland Trust, I am reminded of a quote by Henry Ford, "Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success." Over the past 4 years the Trust has focused its attention on fulfilling the goals of a five year strategic plan and we have made significant progress. The plan reaffirms the Trust's mission to preserve the beautiful, productive farmland of Lancaster County and recognizes the five year period from 2009 to 2013 as a critical "window of opportunity" to increase the pace of preservation.

2013 will be the 25th anniversary of the founding of Lancaster Farmland Trust. The milestones of this strategic plan are especially important as we celebrate the successes of the past 25 years and look forward to opportunities that lie ahead. We are hopeful that we will be able to achieve 100,000 acres preserved in the county by 2013. If this milestone is attained, Lancaster County will be the first county in the nation to protect this amount of farmland and the Trust will have played a critical role in achieving that milestone!

Preserving our farmland is important for so many reasons: fresh, locally grown food, the agricultural economy, beautiful landscapes, clean air and water. All of these components are critical to sustaining our treasured way of life in Lancaster County. As we strive to achieve 100,000 acres preserved by 2013, we will need the continued help and commitment of all our supporters. Whether you are a financial donor, business supporter, volunteer, event participant, farmland preservation advocate, or community leader, your active particpation is critical to our efforts.

With your help, I know that we will be successful! Let's take time to celebrate our successes, but keep our eyes on the horizon and stay committed to protecting our rich agricultural heritage. We live in a unique place that deserves to be protected for generations to come. Thank you for all that you do to keep us on the path to preservation of Lancaster County's exceptional quality of life.

Cordially,
Karen Martynick