This is the first of a two-part series looking at types of land trusts, their missions and their place within the Berkshires.

 

Land is an essential resource for life. We all spend the vast majority of our lives directly connected to the land or in structures built on it. Land is also a central core of the global ecosystem that makes the earth sustainable for all lifeforms.

 

The landscape has special significance in the Berkshires. It is a central element in the region's scenic rural character and quality of life, as well an economic resource that is a basis of tourism.

 

Access to land, and control of its use, is largely based on ownership. This system enables people to own homes, build businesses, establish communities, and pursue other goals and activities.

 

However, the private use and control of land can also be a source of contention and conflict — from debates about development at local planning boards to international wars over territory.

 

Traditionally, local and regional planning policies and regulations such as zoning have been used to balance the concepts of private ownership with shared public goals and needs. In addition government ownership provides land for schools, roads, infrastructure, parks and nature preserves, and other public purposes.

 

In recent decades another form of land ownership and control has gained increasing visibility and prominence. This concept is often known as land trusts.