How my son’s desire to run the NYC Marathon determined my worth – Part III

This is the final part of the story and it’s a significant ending of the series because if it weren’t for his epiphany, I wouldn’t have trekked up to a small farming community in Geneseo, NY, and I wouldn’t have discovered this small but important organization called the Genesee Valley Conservancy (GVC).

The Oak Tree Half Marathon and 5K was a fund raiser for GVS and let me tell you, they did such a superb job in making sure all the runners were safely guided, entertained (they had bands playing along the half marathon course.), and well hydrated with water stations throughout the course. The volunteers from the Geneseo Central School Track and Cross Country Team did a great job helping with registration, handing out post race foods and drinks. I couldn’t have asked for a better first time experience for my kids. For that, I am grateful.  Having said, I’d like to tell you a little bit more about what GVC does for the Genesee Valley region and how you can help.

The Genessee Valley Conservancy

” To protect the habitat, open space and farmland, of the Genesee Valley Region”

Since 1990, the Genesee Valley Conservancy, a not-for-profit organization, has been dedicated to protecting western New York’s open space resources. Through the support of land and conservation easement donors and generous financial contributors, GVC now protects over 8,300 acres of habitat, scenic vistas, and some of New York State’s highest quality farmland.

What would happen if current development continues without intervention or conservation?

The community faces serious challenges such as:

Destruction of habitats and natural areas. The natural systems that provide support to the animals and plants – as well as water quality – are threatened by unwise development.

The loss of unique scenic beauty. The scenic vistas of the Genesee Valley is one of the most appealing aspects of the region. Development threatens to mar the natural and rural landscapes that are now seen from public roadways.

The disappearance of valuable farmland. The Genesee Valley region has a long history of farming. High land costs and taxes threaten farmer’s ability to stay on their land.

How does GVC plan to ensure permanent land protection?

Easement Donation

GVC’s primary protection method is by conservation easement. A landowner donates the development rights of his or her land to the Conservancy, while keeping all other ownership rights. This ensures the safekeeping of the land for the future and allows the landowner to continue living on and enjoying their property. The donation of a conservation easement may qualify the landowner for tax benefits.

Land Donation

GVC accepts gifts of land through a variety of methods, depending on each individual property and the landowner’s wishes. Gifts of environmentally significant land can be maintained by GVC through ownership or sold by GVC subject to a conservation easement. GVC can own land to be held as a nature preserve and, if appropriate, for limited public access; allowing community members to enjoy the natural aspects of the land.

Farmland Protection

The Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) program accesses State funding to buy conservation easements on farms to protect viable farming operations, and the quality soils on which they operate, across the State. A farmer can sell the development rights on their farm while still maintaining ownership of the land and continuing to farm the land as before.

Genesee Valley Conservancy’s goal is to protect 20,000 acres by 2014!!!

How can you help?

• Become a member - 70% of GVC’s operating budget comes from membership donations. Check here under “support” for membership application. Membership is as low as $35 to join.
• Protect your land – contact their office to discuss available conservation options if you are from the Genesee Valley region.
• Volunteer – GVC can always benefit from assistance in any form, in the office or in the field.
• Spread the word - share this information.

You can view their calendar for the events coming up in the Fall by checking “Events” on their website.

If you are not from the Genesee Valley region, check your local area for Nature Conservancy organizations like GVC. I’m sure there are many local organizations dedicated to land conservation in your area.

Get involved. Contribute. Volunteer. I will.

Remember in the beginning of September,  I said, I will donate all the proceeds from the Introductory Sponsorship Offer in September to a charity organization?

I will be donating to GVC on October 1st by becoming a member. Buy an Ad space here and you can help contribute to a great organization to reach its goal of protecting 20,00 acres by 2014.

And as my 17 year old future marathoner suggested, “Oak Tree Half Marathon & 5K” will be our Labor Day weekend tradition from now on. Maybe next year, my husband and I will attempt to run the 5K and make it a family affair. I will t-r-y.

Thank you Genesee Valley Conservancy.  You did more than raise funds to conserve land this past Labor Day weekend; you conserved a boy’s dream when he thought he missed an opportunity to run in a marathon. You helped making his dream that much closer to becoming a reality.

♥

Karen

*All pictures are from the Genesee Valley Conservancy.org website