James M. & Patricia D. Barrett Nature Preserve
Photo by Jarrid Spicer

The results of wide member and donor support of ACRES Land Trust are evident not only on maps, but also as people fly over our service area. A great example is the Cedar Creek Corridor, the largest natural feature remaining in Allen County. It’s not by chance that it’s still there, but through years of effort by ACRES, the state, county parks, other nonprofit organizations and private landowners.

ACRES’ land acquisitions in the corridor began with an 11-acre parcel in 1984 and have continued ever since, both individually and in phases. From 2014-1019, ACRES set bold land acquisition goals that today have been fully achieved. During these five years, member support helped ACRES acquire 503 additional acres in the corridor, acres worth over $4,500,000. This acquired and paid-for acreage is now protected forever.

Today, ACRES owns and forever-protects just over 1,000 acres in the Cedar Creek corridor.

Although it took ACRES 29 years to acquire the corridor’s first 500 acres, the next 500 acres took only five years. And we’re just getting started.

Many more “phases” are yet to come. Past, current and future acquisitions illustrate the importance of connectivity: Each new acquisition enhances the conservation value of previous acquisitions.

While ACRES excels at taking the long view, let’s enjoy the freedom to pause and consider this moment. In this moment, let’s celebrate. Our donors added 500 acres of forever-protected land. They enhanced the work of ACRES members before us. They demonstrated that together, we are capable of big things. By investing in land, our supporters made a tangible and lasting difference. And—our members changed maps forever. Because of ACRES members, the Cedar Creek Corridor remains intact.

When you value places enough to invest in them, you ensure these places will remain. Cedar Creek is proof that ACRES members’ investment will not only pay off now, but that it will continue to do so forever.

Thank you, ACRES supporters, for protecting this place—and so many more.