Listening Session: Vermont Conservation Plan (Act 59)

The Vermont Conservation Plan—also referred to as "30x30," Act 59, and the Community Resilience and Biodiversity Protection Act—calls for the development of a statewide strategy to guide conservation and stewardship across Vermont’s landscapes. The plan is being developed by the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board (VHCB) in consultation with the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) and is informed by input from communities, landowners, and conservation partners throughout the state.

Over the past eighteen months, VHCB and partners have been gathering data, assessing conservation priorities, and engaging Vermonters to help shape the plan. A draft framework has now been developed, and public feedback is being requested before the plan is finalized and submitted to the state legislature in June.

To help ensure that perspectives from Franklin County landowners and conservation leaders are included in this final round of input, the Franklin County NRCD is hosting a hybrid listening session (in-person at the FCNRCD Office or on Zoom) on Tuesday, March 17th from 5:00-7:00pm. This conversation will focus on draft pathways and actions related to land conservation, biodiversity, habitat connectivity, and community stewardship.

This session is intended for landowners, conservation commission members, local officials, and others interested in the future of Vermont’s natural and working landscapes. We will share background on the legislation, review key elements of the draft plan, and highlight actions that may affect land use and conservation priorities. Participants will have the opportunity to share their perspectives and help inform how Act 59 is implemented in Vermont.

Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88940941881?pwd=VDAmsWUB0JOIMB1FenBCFCOwWXcvgR.1

Meeting ID: 889 4094 1881

Passcode: 742414

Accessibility: This meeting space is on the ground floor and is wheelchair accessible. We are committed to making this event as accessible as possible. If you have any questions or require an accommodation or service to participate, please contact Orenna Brand (orenna@franklincountynrcd.org, 802-752-9633).

Parking: Parking is available in front of and behind the building and includes designated accessible spaces.