EDMOND LAND CONSERVANCY

Protect the land that

makes Edmond Home.

We are protecting the natural places our community cannot afford to lose. Your gift ensures Edmond’s meadows, forests, and creeks are preserved forever.

Rooted in Edmond

Our Legacy

Born in 2003, we’ve grown into a community cornerstone for conservation and outdoor recreation.

Our Purpose

We provide a vehicle for citizens to participate in the creation and improvement of green space for community benefit.

Our Strategy

We acquire property rights through easements and donations, turning the "Edmond Green Print" into a tangible reality.

THE STEWARDSHIP BOARD

Derek Smithee

Chairman

Derek.Smithee@yahoo.com

Barrett Matthews

Secretary/Treasurer

bgmatthews@cox.net

MARCUS AYERS

Board Member

marcuswayers@gmail.com

ALYCIA EVANS

Board Member

alycia.n.evans24@gmail.com

RAND PHIPPS

Board Member

rand.phipps@mustangfuel.com

PHIL SPURLIN

Board Member

buckspur@yahoo.com

MICHAEL STACY

Board Member

michaelgmai@yahoo.com

ASHLEY STRINGER

Board Member

astringer12@gmail.com

Then and Now: Open Space in Edmond

Development pressure is real, but so is our commitment. Compare aerial views from 1995 and today to see how much native habitat we've already lost and why protecting what remains is urgent work.

1970: Open Land

Continuous prairie and oak savanna stretched across much of north Edmond, providing wildlife corridors and aquifer recharge.

Today: What's Left

Rapid growth has fragmented habitat into isolated patches. Every acre we protect now prevents further loss and keeps Edmond's wild character alive.

What Your Gift Protects

LAND

Scissortail flycatchers, native pollinators, wildflowers, and the web of life that thrives when habitat stays intact and wild.

BIODIVERSITY

Spring Creek tributaries, seasonal wetlands, and aquifer recharge zones that sustain both wildlife and our community's future.

WATER

Post oak and blackjack groves, tallgrass prairie remnants, and the Cross Timbers ecosystem that once covered central Oklahoma.

Our Stewardship Cycle

Protecting Edmond’s natural heritage is a scientific and community-led journey.

IDENTIFY PRIORITY SITES

Long-term stewardship ensures land stays wild, while community programs educate the next generation.

RESTORE NATIVE HABITAT

Removing invasive species and replanting native flora to bring back biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Monitor and Teach

Monitor protected properties and conservation easements while educating the community

Ways to Help

There are many ways to contribute to the preservation of Edmond's natural heritage.

DONATE

Donate private property to create a permanent conservation easement. Contribute funds directly to support the mission of ELC. Donated funds are used to cover operational costs, educate the community about the importance of conservation, and promote community projects related to land conservation.

TALK IT UP

If you believe the Edmond area needs to strike a balance between undeveloped and developed lands, help us build support. Tell your friends and neighbors about Edmond Land Conservancy. Follow us on social media and invite others to like and follow.

FIND LAND

Connect land owners with Edmond Land Conservancy. Together we can help determine a path to maximize value for the owner and the community.

VOLUNTEER

Keep an eye out for service opportunities with ELC! Whether it is trail clearing or event support, your time is a valuable gift.

Your Generosity Supports Real, Lasting Conservation

ELC works directly with landowners, community partners, and the City of Edmond to protect land that would otherwise be lost. Your donation helps advance projects such as:

CHITWOOD FARM

The 100 acre Chitwood Farm Hay Meadow is permanently protected thanks to a conservation easement supported by ELC and USDA partners.

Arcadia Lake Trail

ELC has collaborated on major trail initiatives including the Spring Creek Trail and future Arcadia Lake Trail, efforts celebrated by city leaders.

Charles D. Lamb Nature Preserve

The Charles D. Lamb Nature Preserve is a protected natural area adjacent to Hafer Park that was created to preserve native habitat, wildlife, and open space in the heart of Edmond.

Support the Legacy

Neighbors Who Keep Edmond Protected

"As a proud fourth-generation Edmond resident, I believe our open spaces are part of what makes Edmond truly special. The remaining natural areas, including the rare and beautiful Cross Timbers forest, are treasures that connect us to our roots and define the character of our community. Preserving these spaces isn’t just about today—it’s about honoring our heritage and ensuring future generations can experience the same beauty and sense of place we cherish. The Edmond Land Conservancy is leading the way in turning this vision into reality, and together, we can protect what makes Edmond home."

- Ashley Stringer, Edmond Land Conservancy Board Member

Ready to Protect Edmond’s Natural Heritage?

Your gift matters. Whether you give once or monthly, or donate in someone's honor; you become part of a growing movement to protect the land and water that make Edmond home.