The 2023 Annual Members Meeting
Avalonia Land Conservancy’s Annual Members Meeting was held on December 3, 2023. It featured a diverse agenda aimed at recognizing and celebrating the organization’s achievements and contributors.
The event began with a networking session, followed by recognition of staff and committees, a presentation of certificates of appreciation, and approval of 2022 meeting minutes.
Notable elements included a memorial statement, a presentation by guest speaker Mirna Martinez, and the acknowledgment of Nature’s Heroes and Good Neighbor awardees. Toby Glaze, the Director of Stewardship, and Dennis Main, Avalonia’s president, presented reports. Dennis also spoke about Avalonia’s Finances. The event culminated in the presentation, nomination, and voting for the 2024 Board of Directors candidates and the evening concluded with a member Q&A session and adjournment at 6 pm.
In 2023, Avalonia demonstrated an extensive commitment to stewardship, with over 550 documented activities and nearly 3,600 volunteer hours invested. Stewardship efforts included administrative and planning initiatives, annual preserve monitoring, habitat enhancement and restoration, invasive plant management, education and outreach endeavors, hazardous tree removal, and enhanced access projects. We showcased our dedication to environmental conservation and community involvement, with collaborative partnerships, volunteer engagement, and ongoing initiatives to improve and preserve natural habitats across Avalonia’s vast network of properties.
Everyone at Avalonia extends heartfelt gratitude to our incredible community of supporters, volunteers, and nature enthusiasts. Your unwavering dedication to preserving and protecting our cherished landscapes has made a significant impact on the beauty and biodiversity of southeastern Connecticut. Together, we’ve achieved milestones that will be felt for generations to come. We look forward to continuing this important work with you in 2024. Wishing you and your loved ones a Happy New Year filled with joy, adventure, and the simple pleasures of nature.