Yes, Edward. The preliminary estimate is $4.2 million. The landowner is open to a bargain sale, and we’re exploring potential funding sources, including the state’s Conservation Partnership Grant and a few private donors who’ve expressed interest in large-scale projects like this.

$4.2 million is significant. How much of this do we anticipate covering with grants versus our own funds? And what’s our exposure if we can’t raise the full amount?

Great questions, Helen. Our preliminary budget model looks like this:

• $2 million from the state grant (application already in progress)
• $1 million from two private donors who’ve verbally committed pending board approval
• The remaining $1.2 million would be a combination of board-led fundraising and possibly a bridge loan, if needed.

We’ll prepare a detailed financial plan for review at the next board meeting.

This sounds like a once-in-a-generation project. Do we know the conservation values well enough yet? Wetlands, forests—what about public access potential?

Absolutely. The property provides critical habitat for two state-listed bird species and offers potential for a 3-mile public trail loop without impacting sensitive areas. It also buffers the river from agricultural runoff, improving water quality for downstream communities.

Love the idea of public access—it’s a strong community engagement opportunity. Will we need an endowment for long-term stewardship?

Yes, we’re estimating an additional $500,000 stewardship endowment. Part of the fundraising plan will include targeting donors specifically for stewardship gifts.

Do we anticipate any opposition? Development pressures? Community concerns?

Good question. There is some developer interest, but the landowner prefers conservation. As for the community, initial feedback has been overwhelmingly positive—we’ll do outreach sessions next month to maintain transparency and build support.

This is incredible work, Grace. I’d like to volunteer for the fundraising subcommittee. We should leverage this as a centerpiece for our annual gala.

I second that—let’s make this a signature achievement for the land trust. Sarah, please schedule a special session next week for a deep dive.

Will do! Thank you all for the enthusiasm—this is a pivotal moment for our mission. I’ll share a detailed briefing packet and financial projections in the Board Documents section by tomorrow.