MISSION & VISION

Preserve North Alabama’s resources

The Land Trust leads regional and community collaborations that plan, preserve, and provide stewardship for green space in North Alabama. Our mission is to preserve North Alabama’s scenic, historic and ecological resources through conservation, advocacy, recreation and education.

MEET OUR LEADERS

HISTORY

Created from a passionate community-driven conservation effort.

Incorporated on June 24, 1987, the Land Trust was established as a result of a passionate community effort to prevent development on the western slopes of Monte Sano. In the late 1980’s, the City of Huntsville established an Ad Hoc Committee to review slope development and open space issues. The result was the creation of Alabama’s first land trust – the Huntsville Land Trust. Initially managed by a dedicated group of volunteers and board members, several donations of land were received in the first few years. The Trust for Public Land helped to negotiate the purchase of the 547 acres on Monte Sano, becoming the Land Trust’s first public nature preserve. By 1997, the Huntsville Land Trust held 950 acres of property and was showing a steady increase in membership support. In just five years, those land holdings would grow to over 3,000 acres. The organization’s name was changed to The Land Trust of Huntsville & North Alabama in 1998, then again in 2010 to Land Trust of North Alabama in an effort to better reflect the broader mission of service to ten counties in North Alabama.

IMPACT

MORE THAN 10,000 ACRES IN SEVEN COUNTIES HAVE BEEN PRESERVED

To date, more than 10,000 acres in seven counties have been preserved. Over 80 miles of public trails have been developed and are maintained by staff and volunteers. These lands include habitat for rare – and in some cases, endangered – species. Land Trust properties remain protected and, in many cases, are open to the public for outdoor recreation, research, and environmental education. Land Trust of North Alabama, now a nationally-accredited conservation land trust, has become the conduit for establishing a mosaic of natural areas throughout the North Alabama area, allowing all residents easy access to experience nature first-hand. Through land preservation, the natural character of the community is preserved, its essential spirit is maintained, and the quality of life of its residents is permanently enhanced.

Board of Directors

Stuart Obermann

Chair

Lindsey Pattillo Keane

Vice Chair

James Falcon

Past Chair

Jonathan Rossow

Secretary

Ryan Chaffin

Treasurer

Rena Anderson

Chad Ayres

Erica DeSpain

Christie Finley

Brad Flowers

Chris Gray

Megan Gully

Drew Hildreth

Jeremiah House

Chris Jones

Rallissa Jones

Harper Lanier-Russell

Rebekah McKinney

Kori Paull

Ryan Reed

Karen Stanley

Leslie Watts

Julie Williams

Why We Love Land Trust!

“I support the Land Trust because I believe in their mission, and that it’s vitally important to protect the beautiful natural landscape in and around our community.”

Stuart Obermann

“As an avid trail runner and hiker I want to support the Land Trust in preserving these places.”

James Falcon

“LTNA’s preservation of North Alabama’s green space will forever impact our region. I am thrilled to play a role alongside an incomparable LTNA team and Board of Directors.”

Lindsey Pattillo Keane

“Natural habitats are an essential part of every community. The Land Trust of North Alabama preserves and connects us with the natural world through education, advocacy, and places to explore. When we connect with nature our health improves and we are inspired to do more to preserve and expand these spaces for future generations. This is the mission of the Land Trust that I proudly support as a member, volunteer and board member.”

Jonathan Rossow

“I am passionate about the LTNA because they preserve our green space for the benefit of our community and all the generations to come!”

Ryan Chaffin

“I have always had a love for hiking and the outdoors. The LTNA makes experiencing the natural beauty of our region easy to access and sustainable. I’m honored to be part of such a great organization.”

Chris Jones

“As the daughter of a retired principal, I believe that lifelong learning is a fundamental aspect of our lives. I am excited to support the Land Trust of North Alabama because it provides invaluable educational opportunities that shed light on our remarkable local ecology and its intentional preservation efforts. These initiatives not only benefit our community but also enhance the experiences of visitors to our region.”

Rallisa Jones

“As someone that has always loved the outside I want to be a part of creating and sustaining the future of outdoor opportunities in Northern Alabama.”

Kori Paull

“I grew up on a farm here in North Alabama. I had space to ride my horse, walk, and enjoy the lakes and streams. Although I didn’t appreciate what a gift that was at a younger age, I now realize how much people need wide open spaces. I’m thankful to the Land Trust of North Alabama for preserving green spaces, and I’m glad to lend my efforts to the cause.”

Julie Williams

“I became a member of Land Trust because I believe that every great place to live has great outdoor options to explore for leisure, exercise, learning, and more. Land Trust of North Alabama offers all of this and so much more. Venturers to Land Trust trails will discover some of the most beautiful, well-kept areas in the region. I am so glad to have these local destinations to enjoy with my husband and three children.”

Erica DeSpain

“Huntsville’s outdoor spaces are remarkably unique for a city of our size. Preserving and enhancing these areas in North Alabama is essential to maintain our competitive edge as we work to attract the brightest minds from around the world. Today’s top talent, especially younger professionals, place a high value on access to outdoor recreation and quality of life. As they weigh career opportunities, the strength of our outdoor amenities can be a decisive factor.”

Brad Flowers

“I choose to support the Land Trust and its mission to preserve north Alabama’s resources not only for the positive impact to biodiversity of the region but also for human well-being. I believe going out into these natural areas and enjoying nature has a positive impact on mental and physical health. I know I enjoy a good hike with my family as often as I can!”

Chris Gray

“I’m passionate about the Land Trust’s mission and the long-term impact that preservation can have on our community and the world.”

Megan Gully

“It is an honor and privilege to serve with the LTNA. I firmly believe in their mission and am passionate about preserving these diverse lands for future generations to explore and learn.”

Drew Hildreth

“As a new board member, I’m inspired by the Land Trust’s commitment to protecting our natural spaces for future generations. It’s an honor to support an organization that helps ensure our community has access to the beauty and benefits of the outdoors.”

Jeremiah House

“As a native Huntsvillan, I grew up scampering around and exploring the Land Trust trails. North Alabama is one of the most bio-diverse environments in the country, and I believe it is important to protect our natural environment for everyone to enjoy, both now and in the future.”

Harper Lanier-Russell

“Experiencing and preserving nature is vital to me and I am proud to help the Land Trust accomplish its goals.”

Ryan Reed

“I am passionate about the Land trust, because it is a very unique way to leave a legacy of land, green space and a healthy lifestyle to future generations.”

Karen Stanley