Lower Shore Land Trust

The Lower Shore Land Trust (LSLT) is a 501(c)3 founded in 1990 by a dedicated group of individuals united by a common goal: to preserve the rural character and natural beauty of the lower shore region. Recognizing the growing need to protect the area's unique landscapes and wildlife habitats, these visionary founders lay the groundwork for an organization committed to conservation and sustainable stewardship.

Over the past three decades, LSLT has grown into a formidable force in land conservation. 

Today, the organization holds conservation easements on over 140 properties, safeguarding more than 24,000 acres of land from development. This significant achievement has positioned LSLT as the second-largest land trust in the State of Maryland, a testament to its unwavering dedication and the trust it has earned from landowners and the broader community alike.

LSLT’s impact extends beyond conservation; the organization is also a recognized leader in habitat restoration. With a particular focus on grassland ecosystems, LSLT has worked tirelessly to restore vital wildlife habitats across the region. In 2024 alone, the LSLT installed over 100 acres of grassland habitat, reinforcing its commitment to fostering biodiversity and enhancing the ecological health of the Lower Shore.

Despite its small staff, LSLT operates with immense passion and expertise. The team’s efforts not only protect the landscapes we cherish but also actively restore and revitalize the natural areas that define the Lower Shores’s identity. Through collaboration with landowners, community partners, and conservation advocates, LSLT continues to shape a future where the rural charm and ecological richness of the Lower Shore remain intact for generations to come.