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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The towns of Berkley and Marshfield lie 50 miles apart, at opposite corners of the Wildlands Trust coverage area. Berkley sits just outside of Providence, Rhode Island, on the banks of the federally designated “Wild and Scenic” Taunton River, while Marshfield is a costal town within driving distance of Boston. These two communities may have little in common, but they are connected in an important way for Wildlands Trust.

We often meet prospective board members while working on projects in their towns. Wildlands was introduced to Greg Lucini of Berkley when he decided to protect his land on the Taunton River; we met Crystal Gould when she led efforts in Marshfield to protect an iconic farm. Greg and Crystal joined the board in 2008 and were quickly respected for their passion for land protection, their strategic minds, and their executive experiences—Greg as an international businessperson and Crystal as an insurance risk manager.

Board Chair Doug Hart tapped Greg and Crystal for his executive committee, where the three worked closely together for a decade. With a calm, thoughtful approach to governing, Greg and Crystal have helped usher Wildlands Trust through times of meaningful change and growth. Both still serve as directors today, with Greg carrying added responsibilities as our capable treasurer.

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