The Northwest Arkansas Land Trust (NWALT) announced today they have received $200,000 from an anonymous local conservationist to further their efforts to save and protect land in Northwest Arkansas.

“We are overwhelmed with gratitude for this incredible gift,” said Grady Spann, NWALT Executive Director and CEO. “This future-focused investment in conservation will be a catalyst to every part of our work. These funds will allow us to increase the speed of land protection, enable habitat restoration and public access efforts, expand our educational outreach, and support the growth of our region’s supply of fresh fruits and vegetables from local farms.

"I help support the preservation of the natural world because it is such a great idea,” said the anonymous donor. “When we protect the natural environment, we are protecting a larger web that we are all a part of. We retain access to peace of mind, rejuvenation, and gratitude. We can also have experiences of awe, beauty, adventure, and discovery. In honoring and respecting the nature surrounding us, we are doing the same for ourselves."

Northwest Arkansas is seeing rapid growth with the population on track to exceed one million by 2045. As one of the fastest-growing regions in the United States, Northwest Arkansas loses an estimated nine acres of open space each day. “The choice today to protect our region’s abundant scenic beauty, clean water, fresh air, wildlife habitats, outdoor recreation, local farms, and rural charm will be a gift to the future generations that will call this special place home,” said Robert Hopper, NWALT’s Director of Engagement and Giving.

This gift will also help drive NWALT’s upcoming year-long awareness campaign across the region to share the vital need to balance rapid growth with strategic land protection. “We believe that Northwest Arkansas’ dynamic economy and natural landscapes are intertwined. Both help define who we are as a region. Planning for development in harmony with protecting NWA’s land, water, and wildlife will be key in ensuring we preserve and enhance the quality of life for all in Northwest Arkansas,” said Spann.