The Early Conservation Career Network (ECCN) (formerly Young Land Professionals) is an interest group of MLTC. ECCN was formed in 2017 to provide networking and training opportunities for those in their first 10 years of a career in land conservation. Currently, ECCN has over 150 members from a wide range of land trusts and state agencies. An organizing committee works to move initiatives forward.
We hope you'll join ECCN! You’ll be added to our email list where you’ll receive information about upcoming events and opportunities. Please email admin@massland.org to sign up.
Organizing Committee Members:
Mariah Fogg (bio), Land Trust Alliance, ECCN President ~ Olivia Barksdale, Town of Acton (bio), ECCN Vice President ~ Thomas Patti, Wildlands Trust (bio), ECCN Communications Coordinator ~ Robin Beckham (nee Austin), Lincoln Institute of Land Policy (bio) ~ Mary Doucette, Buzzards Bay Coalition (bio) ~ Olivia Houde, Greater Worcester Land Trust (bio) ~ Julia Fitzpatrick, Greenbelt (bio) ~ Johnny Robinson, Berkshire Natural Resources Council (bio) ~ Sam Rogers, Sudbury Valley Trustees (bio)
Mentorship Opportunity for Mentees and Mentors
The ECCN mentorship program aims to foster opportunities for professional development and network-building in the Massachusetts land conservation field through regular, structured meetings between new and experienced professionals. The program was revamped in Fall 2024, when 5-7 mentor-mentee pairs were matched based on interest areas, mentorship needs, location, and other factors.
2025/2026 program
Guidelines
The deadline for the 2025/2026 year has passed. Thanks to all who submitted an application. We're looking forward to another great cohort!
For questions, contact Olivia Barksdale or Thomas Patti.
Upcoming Events
We're planning more outings and events - stay tuned!