WHAT WE DO
Sycamore is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit conservation organization founded in 1990 that serves 26 counties in southern Indiana.
We protect land and restore natural habitat: Sycamore protects land by owning and caring for nature preserves, and by holding conservation easements that protect privately owned properties. We acquire land through donations, purchases, and bargain sales (partial donations). Stewardship of our nature preserves includes restoration projects to improve natural habitat, and building and maintaining trails for free public use. Sycamore now protects 141 properties totaling 11,418 acres in southern Indiana.
We connect people to nature: In addition to providing over 30 miles of free public hiking trails, Sycamore operates an Environmental Education Program that connects people of all ages to nature through guided hikes and outdoor learning opportunities. Read more about our Environmental Education Program.
Our federal tax identification number is 35-1830637.
MISSION AND VISION
Our Mission: to preserve the beauty, health, and diversity of southern Indiana’s natural landscape through strategic land conservation and environmental education.
Our Vision: Sycamore Land Trust envisions a future in which southern Indiana has diverse and abundant habitat for native plants and animals, as well as clean air and water, working lands that are productive and sustainable, and people who embrace the connection between a healthy environment and our quality of life.
We are accredited and uphold the highest standards: In 2019, Sycamore became an accredited land trust through the Land Trust Accreditation Commission. Accreditation acknowledges the highest level of achievement in transparency, accountability, and longevity for land trusts across North America. Guidestar has given Sycamore the Gold Seal of Transparency for 2023.