POLICY ON ADVOCACY
In order to work toward making systematic changes necessary to achieving our mission the Westmoreland Land Trust engages in advocacy activity, or active support for a cause, idea, or policy. It is the policy of Westmoreland Land Trust to advocate on public policy issues that support the mission of the organization, such as the specific issues about the preservation, protection and stewardship of natural, cultural, and historical resources in and around Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. Theses issues must relate to the preservation, protection, and stewardship of areas serving as wildlife habitat, stream access, scenic vistas, working landscapes or historic lands and structures and areas in need of restoration through public education regarding land preservation and the acquisition of interest in land including conservation easements.
CRITERIA FOR PUBLIC POLICY POSITIONS
The Westmoreland Land Trust may take positions on public policy issues that fulfill three basic criteria:
- The issues affect Westmoreland Land Trust’s ability to work toward its mission;
- The issues affect the Westmoreland Land Trust’s clients or program participants; and
- The issues affect the Westmoreland Land Trust’s status or its operations.
PROCESS FOR DETERMINING POSITIONS
Advocacy positions on specific issues will be determined on a case-by-case basis by consensus of the Board.
CONCERNING PARTICIPATION ON COALITIONS
In the Westmoreland Land Trust’s work with coalitions and associations, the Westmoreland Land Trust may take part in the advocacy work of a group provided the work is not in conflict with the Westmoreland Land Trust’s mission
NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION IS NONPARTISAN IN ITS ACTIVITIES
Clients of the Westmoreland Land Trust represent a broad cross-section of the political spectrum. The Westmoreland Land Trust does not support one candidate over another candidate: and does not support any political parties. The Westmoreland Land Trust works with all political parties in legislative efforts. If it asks one candidate for office to speak at events or conferences, an invitation is extended to any opposing candidates as well.
Adopted by the Westmoreland Land Trust Board of Directors on September 24, 2008.
The mission of the Westmoreland Land Trust is to conserve and steward lands and waters of Westmoreland County that harbor ecological, scenic or recreational qualities to offer a healthier and more sustainable future for all.
