Read below for an essay excerpted from 50 Remarkable Years, 50 Remarkable People, Wildlands’ 50th anniversary book honoring the partners and volunteers who have made remarkable contributions to land conservation in Southeastern Massachusetts.

Read “The Next Remarkable Chapter,” our series introduction by President Karen Grey.

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It is not unusual for land protection projects to take years, or even decades, to complete. Hurdles are to be expected. Generally, the bigger the parcel, the higher the hurdles, and the longer the project takes.

There are exceptions, however. When asked why the project to protect his 250-acre parcel on the Taunton River proceeded so smoothly, Peter Lehtola is quick to answer. “I had an angel sitting on my shoulder,” he says. “I promised my mother I would make sure this land was never developed, and that was a promise I intended to keep.”

The deal to protect this stunningly beautiful parcel came together in a single session at Peter and Rita Lehtola’s kitchen table, where the Lehtolas sat with staff from Wildlands Trust and the Mass Department of Fish & Game, along with Maggie, their napping German shepherd. We presented our appraisal and, without hesitation, Peter called it a deal. For the record, it never happens like this.

Today, ownership of Great River Preserve is shared by Wildlands and the Department of Fish & Game. The property is a conservation gem. It boasts over 1.5 miles of frontage on the Taunton River, expansive open fields for ground-nesting birds, and beautiful woodland walking trails.

Peter and Rita are the best neighbors we could ever ask for. They are always there to lend a helping hand (or a piece of needed equipment), yet remain completely respectful of the property’s new ownership.

Purchase 50 Remarkable Years, 50 Remarkable People today: wildlandstrust.org/shop50