Our History

In early 1996, a group of residents from the Treasure Valley gathered in Boise to learn about land trusts and how they might be used to further community open space goals. A steering committee arose from that meeting to explore the possibility of creating a local land trust. It met regularly over the next year.

By mid-1996, the steering committee had identified a serious need for a land trust in southwest Idaho. Ada and Canyon counties, in particular, were experiencing rapid population growth, urban sprawl and rising land values. Open spaces that contributed to the fine quality of life in southwest Idaho were threatened. Opportunities for nearby recreation were decreasing, and the unique interplay of town and nature we had always enjoyed was disappearing.

In August 1996, the steering committee released its findings and invited interested persons to become involved in forming a local land trust. Soon thereafter, a board of directors was formed, articles of incorporation and bylaws were adopted, and an application for tax-exempt status was submitted to the IRS and has been subsequently approved.