The Story of the Narrow River Land Trust
The Narrow River Land Trust was organized as a 501(c)3 non-profit entity in 1982. It was one of the first land trusts to be incorporated in Rhode Island, and it is still distinguished today as the only watershed-based land trust in the state. Its founders were motivated to create a Land Trust by what they perceived as a loss of wildlife habitat and a degradation of water quality in the Narrow or Pettaquamscutt River caused by an increase in residential development in the 1950’s and 60’s.
In 1970, a group of concerned citizens in the Watershed became alarmed by the potential sale to developers of a 225-acre property which they considered a “natural wilderness preserve.” They came together to oppose and prevent the sale from happening. The property, known as the Kelgrant, had been given to the Boys Scouts, who after several years decided to sell it because they were no longer using it. To create a unified front, the citizens formed a nonprofit organization which they called the Narrow River Preservation Association (NRPA). It took many, many years to resolve the Kelgrant property, but finally with the intervention of the North Kingstown Planning Department, the new Narrow River group, NRPA, succeeded in seeing the Kelgrant property protected as a wilderness preserve and open space.
In 1972, a yearlong, federally sponsored study of RI’s natural resources concluded that the Narrow River was the #1 “most valuable resource in the State.” By 1976 the first watershed-wide study and subsequent plan for stormwater management in the Narrow River was published by the Tri-Town Narrow River Planning Committee. Among its findings was a recommendation to form “a watershed land trust to solicit and maintain privately dedicated open space land.” By the 1980’s, the Open Space Planning Committee of the NRPA had become overloaded with the work to acquire land and conservation rights. It was a time when Land Trusts were being formed around the state; so with the encouragement of Board member W.E.R. Lafarge, the NRPA decided to help create a separate, nonprofit Land Trust to own land and hold conservation easements. This Narrow River Land Trust was thus incorporated in 1982.
In 1985 the NRLT received its first donation of a salt marsh property from Jane Smith. Two donations of land by Avery Brooks and Ferren McIntyre in 1989 bumped our holdings to 30 acres and solidified the role and purpose of the Land Trust. As of this year, the NRLT holds six Conservation Easements and owns 24 properties in-fee. Our Easements cover 113 acres and the properties or “Preserves” we own amount to 550 acres for a total of 663 acres of permanently protected conservation land.
As we enter our 40th year, we have many people and organizations to thank for their work and support. In Rhode Island and the Narrow River Watershed, we have many organizational partners, dedicated members, donors, and volunteers who have kept the Land Trust active, relevant, and vital. As our combined promise is to protect these conservation lands into perpetuity, we will always have a lot of work and responsibilities ahead of us. In the 40 years since its inception, the work of the Land Trust has become more vital, but also more difficult. Residential development pressure and land values have increased dramatically while the availability of undeveloped land suitable for conservation opportunities has decreased.
We hope you will continue to share our purpose and mission to preserve, protect, and restore the natural and cultural resources of the Narrow River Watershed.
Our Board Members
Marcia Izzi, Co-President
David White Esq., Co-President
Rick Shults, Treasurer
Kellie King, Secretary
Julie Sharpe, President Emeritus
David Borkman
Michael Woods
Craig Wood
Derek Miller
Brian Tefft
Conservation
Conservation in the Narrow River Watershed encompasses various aspects, including:
- Conservation of natural resources (e.g., wetlands, streams, endangered species)
- Protection of historical and cultural sites (e.g., historic landmarks, farms, mills)
- Preservation of scenic vistas, iconic landscapes, and recreational areas.
Conservation efforts in the Narrow River Watershed evolved over time:
- In the 1970s, conservation extended to protecting water quality in the Narrow River due to overdevelopment.
- Historical landmarks and archaeological sites were preserved.
- Eighteenth-century sites aimed to protect both landscapes and cultural heritage.
- Many properties were preserved through donation or purchase by non-profits, municipalities, or the state.
Historical human interventions in natural resources management:
- Native Americans practiced forest cutting and field burning.
- European settlers dammed streams and dug wells.
- Introduced species altered the landscape.
- Resource management began as a response to population growth and technology.
Restoration and Preservation became key goals:
- Examples of Restoration in the Watershed (e.g., dam removal, fish ladder construction).
- Restoration efforts for bird habitats and saltmarsh protection.
- Challenges posed by sea-level rise.
Conservation through Preservation:
- Protecting habitats to safeguard wildlife.
- The quality of land impacts aquatic habitats.
- Preserving land means maintaining its original condition.
- Conservation involves acquiring deeds, development rights, or easements.
Narrow River Watershed conservation history:
- Donations of land for conservation began in the 1800s.
- The Narrow River Land Trust was established in 1982.
- The trust acquired 30 conservation properties (24 in fee, 6 via easements).
- Responsible for 665 acres of conservation land.
Collaboration with conservation partners:
- John H Chafee National Wildlife Refuge established in 1988.
- Collaboration with federal, state, and local entities.
- Working with conservation and stewardship organizations.
- Partnerships with funding and research organizations.
- Volunteers play a crucial role in monitoring and stewardship
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Is the Narrow River Land Trust?
The Narrow River Land Trust (NRLT), which was established in 1982, is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of land in the Narrow River watershed. The land we preserve protects water and agricultural resources, wildlife habitat, and open space for recreation. We work cooperatively with private owners and local communities to ensure that these areas are protected now and for future generations. Our work helps keep the Narrow River clean for you and your families to enjoy. Contributions are tax-deductible.
How Does NRLT Preserve Open Space?
Several land protection methods are used. Twenty-four of the NRLT properties are fee-owned and five are protected with conservation easements. The fee-owned properties are protected from development in perpetuity and are managed to maximize environmental benefits. The properties protected by conservation easements are privately owned, but restricted by easement on future development.
How Do Conservation Easements Work?
A landowner may choose to donate or sell the right to control some or even most of their property, usually in exchange for substantial tax benefits. A conservation easement allows the landowner to keep their house, outbuildings, and other structures, but will usually preclude alteration of the remaining designated portions of the property. If you would like to put a conservation easement on your property, please contact us!
Are NRLT Properties Open to the Public?
Yes! Several NRLT properties are open to the public. Benson Preserve in North Kingstown and Garrison House Acres in South Kingstown have walking trails. These properties have educational and historical importance.
How Is the NRLT Funded?
All of our operating funds come from private donations. We rely on contributions for our stewardship and improvement efforts. We also use our funds to acquire more properties to protect when possible.
What Are Future Projects for NRLT?
We look forward to continuing to develop recreational and educational opportunities on the land. We also look forward to working with volunteers and other community groups on projects to enhance our properties.
How Is NRLT Different from the Narrow River Preservation Association? Is it a Separate Non-Profit Organization?
The Narrow River Land Trust (NRLT) and the Narrow River Preservation Association (NRPA) are partner organizations.
How Can I Help?
Please join our organization, and spread the word about our important work. The Land Trust succeeds with the participation and generous financial support of members like you. Volunteer opportunities are available.