Like a healthy tree, Landis has been developing a strong root system, and like a tree with strong roots, the top growth becomes sustained. From the gardens and collections to our finances and programs, everything at Landis must be sustainable for long-term success. Therefore, sustainability is our mantra. Even during these tough financial times, when many not-for-profits find themselves in danger of closing, Landis has been able to survive – and to look forward to a healthy future.
Realistically, money is what keeps the Arboretum growing. Grants have always been one of our top priorities, and grants have enabled us to sustain our mission. Successful grant applications have made it possible to maintain and expand our horticultural collections, trails, and buildings, and bring quality programs to our site.
In 2014, we were able to hire more staff and contract workers to care for the Arboretum’s collections and to improve our walking and hiking trails. In addition, the generosity of members allowed us to make upgrades to the Barn and Meetinghouse and add more storage space in each location.
Awarded grants of 2014 include:
- ZBGA Grant Award. This funding goes directly toward the care of our horticultural collections.
- Community Arts Grant (DEC). This grant funded the Mettawee River Theater performance on July 26th.
- Schoharie Occupancy Tax Grant 2014 and the Montgomery Tourism Grant 2014. Both grants contributed to our ‘Live at Landis’ music series.
- Iroquois Pipeline Community Grant 2014. This grant contributed to the creation of a new trail at Landis including labor and signage. The trail will be officially open to the public in spring 2015.
- SPN Sign Grant 2014. This grant was used to purchase QR-coded signs regarding the emerald ash borer, the Asian longhorn beetle, and several individual trees.
- Poets & Writers, Inc./NYS Arts Council Grants. These grants funded three series of writing classes.
- Stewart’s Holiday Match. This grant was used to help pay for George Steele’s nature education programs at Landis.
Landis also held several successful fundraising events in 2014, including both the Spring and Fall Plant, Book and Bake sales, the Perennial 5K Run/Walk, and the Wine Tasting Event at Grapevine Farms. Without sponsors such as Sterling Insurance of Cobleskill, Kintz Plastics, Janney Montgomery Scott, Donna LaVigne Insurance, Hannaford of Esperance, Grapevine Farms, and our members, donors, and volunteers, these events would not have been as successful as they were.