Nomination Statement for Northern New England Region Candidate Debbie Stanley

Prior to the formation of Terrafirma RRG, the Ausbon Sargent Land Preservation Trust (ASLPT) board would periodically discuss the concept of a pooled conservation defense insurance program.   We had established an Enforcement/Defense Fund that continues to grow but we also felt that insurance would provide another level of protection.    So in June 2010, we felt it was important to join other land trusts and financially commit to the development of LTA’s efforts to create a conservation defense program.

One can never predict when insurance will be needed. In November 2014, the ASLPT was faced with our first major violation in 27 years.  It was so reassuring to be able to talk to Leslie at Terrafirma.  She was a wealth of information and offered sound advice on how to proceed.  ASLPT went through the steps of filing a claim and having a conference call with the Claims Committee.  Fortunately for us, the matter was resolved and the cost was minimal and fell below the deductible.  This could have been a very different and costly scenario as the violator has a reputation of being extremely difficult.   This experience reaffirmed the significance of carrying defense insurance as a way to manage risks.   I accepted the invitation to run as a representative from the Northern New England region because I believe in the program and I felt that my experience with Terrafirma would be a benefit to other land trusts.

After reviewing the responsibilities of a Terrafirma Member Committee, I felt that I had the qualifications to be an active and participating representative for the Northern New England region.  As Executive Director of the ASLPT which first achieved accreditation in July 2009 and renewal in February 2015, my strengths dovetail perfectly with the responsibilities of financial oversight, organizational management oversight, governance and outreach for Terrafirma.  I pledge to be an active, dedicated and committed representative for the Northern New England region.  Thank you for your consideration.