Last week, we marked 39 years of conservation at our annual Summer Celebration at Hacker's Hill in Casco. Despite the weather, it was a wonderful evening connecting with community members who share a love for the Lake Region’s lands, waters, and trails.

We were especially pleased to recognize and honor four board members who will be transitioning to the LELT Emeritus Board: Connie Cross, Eric Dibner, Bob Gowdy, and Sheila Bourque. Collectively, Connie, Eric, Bob, and Sheila have contributed more than 110 years of service to Loon Echo Land Trust.

We were also proud to present the Cross Volunteer Service Award to Ed Pontbriand for his extraordinary dedication to Loon Echo and the Lake Region through countless hours of volunteer service, including serving as a founding LELT ambassador, running safety support for events with Wilderness Rescue Team, and as a leader with the Lake Region Wood Bank.

The Cross Volunteer Award is named in honor of Connie Cross, and is presented annually to an individual "In honor of exemplary volunteer and community service to Loon Echo Land Trust and the Lake Region of Maine. This award celebrates the enduring impact of Connie Cross, an educator and passionate member of our community whose legacy of service is as an inspiration to all."

Greg Dean received the Dibner Lake Region Heritage Award in recognition of his exceptional stewardship of the Lake Region’s lands and trails, and his quiet, lasting impact on the places you know and love - especially Pleasant Mountain.

The Dibner Heritage Award is presented annually to an individual "In honor of outstanding dedication and care for land and environment in the Lake Region of Maine. This award celebrates the enduring legacy and impact of Eric Dibner, a passionate advocate for stewardship of the Lake Region."

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As we look toward the future, LELT remains committed to supporting thriving communities, providing access to the outdoors for all, and conserving the lands and waters of the Lake Region for generations to come. It is hard but hopeful work toward a vision for the future that none of us can achieve alone.

Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate this milestone, and to those who make our work possible every day.