WHCL provides legal and strategic support to land trusts on organizational and operational matters that extend beyond individual transactions. This includes guidance on accreditation, internal processes, grant compliance, and day-to-day governance. With in-house land trust experience, the focus is on helping organizations operate efficiently, remain aligned with applicable standards, and support long-term conservation goals.
Practical Guidance for Effective Land Trust Operations
LTA Accreditation and Compliance
WHCL guides land trusts through initial accreditation and reaccreditation with the Land Trust Alliance, and provides ongoing support in operating in accordance with LTA’s Standards and Practices.
Streamlined Operations
With substantial in-house land trust experience, WHCL helps organizations refine and improve both legal and non-legal project and operational processes to support efficiency and consistency.
Navigating Grant Requirements
WHCL assists land trusts in navigating the nuances and complexities of grant funding rules and requirements, particularly as they intersect with real estate transactions and conservation projects.
General counsel support
Ongoing Organizational Guidance
WHCL provides practical legal support on a range of organizational matters, helping land trusts address governance, compliance, and day-to-day operational questions as they arise. Our work is responsive and ongoing, offering guidance that aligns with each organization’s structure, policies, and conservation mission.
The firm assists with governance considerations such as board roles and responsibilities, policy development, and organizational decision-making, as well as compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and internal standards. This includes advising on operational issues, reviewing internal documents, and helping to resolve questions as they emerge, allowing organizations to move forward with clarity and confidence.