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A Partnership That Fuels Impact ~ The Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Funds |
| For those of you who joined us on November 9 at Smith Lake Preserve, you got to see up close one of the things featured in this post and this week we are going to take a moment to recognize who made it, and so much else at NFLT, possible — Delores Barr Weaver and the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Funds at The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida.
The Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Funds has been a transformative partner for North Florida Land Trust (NFLT), embodying the power of collaboration to protect North Florida’s natural landscapes. Sharing a vision for preserving the region’s ecological heritage, the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Funds has profoundly impacted NFLT’s ability to steward its properties and fulfill its mission of conservation.
The Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Funds’ support transcends financial contributions—it reflects a comprehensive understanding of what land conservation entails. Protecting land doesn’t end with acquisition; it begins there. It is through the stewardship and management of the land that NFLT ensures conserved lands become and remain vibrant and ecologically sound, benefiting both people and nature.
The Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Funds’ support has also been instrumental in expanding NFLT’s reach and impact. A six-figure grant from the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Funds helped launch NFLT’s membership program, fostering deeper connections with the community. The Fund has supported high-impact conservation projects, such as the acquisition of Little NaNa Dune, ensuring that the iconic and ecologically critical ancient dune is protected for generations. Additionally, the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Funds made a lead gift to NFLT’s 25th Anniversary Endowment, strengthening the organization’s long-term sustainability. Most notably, a 10-year, $1 million pledge to NFLT’s Preservation Fund for conservation land acquisitions has provided vital financial resources to help us protect land and North Florida’s most vulnerable ecosystems.
It is impossible to say which grant has had the largest impact on NFLT and the work we do; however, we can perhaps say which has been the most exciting (for us conservation nerds, anyway). The purchase of Lola D, a custom-built, large-capacity fire truck, was made possible through a grant from the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Funds and so named in Mrs. Weaver’s honor. Managing close to 30 properties spanning tens of thousands of acres across North Florida, all requiring tailored management plans to meet conservation goals, is a challenge. Having the right tools and equipment is critical and fire is one of those tools. Fire is a natural and necessary process for many of Florida’s ecosystems, crucial for clearing invasive species, promoting native plant growth, and preserving wildlife habitats. Prescribed burning, one of the stewardship team’s cornerstone activities, requires precise timing, expertise, and specialized tools. Previously, NFLT had to rely on assistance from external providers when we would do prescribed burns. This limited flexibility and scheduling and in turn delayed timelines and restoration efforts. The addition of two critical pieces of equipment, a track loader with unit head and the new custom-built large-capacity firetruck, Lola D, allows NFLT to do more in-house, thereby reducing costs and ongoing maintenance expenses. The stewardship team can conduct burns safely and on their timeline. Beyond prescribed burns, this equipment enhances the team’s overall land management capabilities and supports NFLT’s role as a partner in conservation efforts throughout the state of Florida. Having the critical tools such as a firetruck and track loader enables more proactive planning, reduces dependence on outside services, and saves costs—all critical for managing a growing portfolio of properties.
NFLT’s progress in stewardship is rooted in strategic investments and partnerships. The acquisition of Smith Lake Preserve in 2019, which included a barn for housing equipment, was a pivotal moment. It provided the space needed to store and maintain essential equipment and tools. This, coupled with the support of the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Funds and other key donors, allowed NFLT to fully bring in-house its land management processes. Owning equipment like tractors, mowers, and now the firetruck, positions NFLT to set the stewardship timelines across its portfolio. Each property can receive the care it needs without delays, ensuring that conservation goals are met efficiently.
The Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Funds’ multifaceted support aligns seamlessly with NFLT’s mission. Through investments in tools, programs, and infrastructure, the Fund is ensuring that conserved lands are not only protected but actively managed for the benefit of ecosystems and communities alike.
Healthy natural landscapes provide clean air and water, support diverse wildlife, and enhance our quality of life. Yet, these vital resources face constant pressure from development and environmental challenges. The Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Funds’ contributions—including its support for stewardship, program development, endowment growth, and land acquisition—empower NFLT to confront these challenges head-on, ensuring that North Florida’s natural landscapes remain resilient and vibrant for generations to come. |
An important note ~
We must also take this opportunity to recognize the amazing support and partnership of The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida. We are grateful for their guidance and belief in our mission and their support of and for Northeast Florida and its nonprofit community.
About The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida ~
The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida, Florida’s oldest and largest community foundation, works to stimulate philanthropy to build a better community. The Foundation helps donors invest their philanthropic gifts wisely, helps nonprofits serve the region effectively, and helps people come together to make the community a better place. Created in 1964, the Foundation has made more than $695 million in grants since its inception, and manages assets that exceeded $630 million at their peak in 2021.
*Little NaNa Dune photo credit: Steve Leimberg 2021
