Mission & History

Our Mission

The Cape Elizabeth Land Trust permanently conserves and stewards cherished lands – from shorelands to marshes, from farmlands to woodlands – for ecological benefit and for the enjoyment and education of all people.

Our History

Historically, the character of Cape Elizabeth was defined by a rich agricultural heritage and a spectacular rocky coastline with close ties to the ocean. Over time, given its proximity to Portland, the town evolved into a more suburban community. In 1985, a group of Cape residents serving on the town’s Conservation Commission formed a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the rural character of the town for future generations.

CELT has steadily grown from its first operating budget of $997 and an all-volunteer operation to five full-time staff members, 27 board and advisory council members, and the permanent conservation of 850 acres on 35 parcels of land. Despite its considerable growth over the years, CELT is still a grassroots organization dependent on community involvement. We invite you to join our organization in support of our ongoing conservation efforts.