BRIDGTON — Through its conservation and stewardship of nearly 10,000 acres and over 35 miles of trails in the Sebago Lake region, Loon Echo Land Trust is deepening relationships between people and the environment, while preserving natural areas and resources in the process.

LELT is a nonprofit organization that protects the character of land in Bridgton, where it is based, Casco, Denmark, Naples, Harrison, Sebago, and Raymond. Its efforts enable public access to places like Pleasant Mountain and Raymond Community Forest and support water resources, wildlife habitats, and working farms and forests.

The impressive work of LELT has inspired consistent support from Norway Savings Bank. NSB has contributed over $50,000 to LELT in the last decade, including a recent donation of $5,000 to serve as the title sponsor of the Loon Echo Trek for the Trails. Participation in the trek is free, and individuals can run, bike, or walk on area trails between Sept. 1 and Oct. 31, then log their miles online. Thanks to the support of local businesses, LELT gets $1 from a match pool for every mile logged. In addition, every trekker is entered into a raffle for great prizes from local businesses.

“The success of this annual event would not be possible without the support of Norway Savings Bank,” Matt Markot, executive director of LELT, said in a press release. “They’ve served as the title sponsor of the trek for nine years, and through their generosity, we’ve been able to use this fundraiser to increase outdoor recreation opportunities.”

Dan Walsh, president and CEO of Norway Savings Bank, said, “Over the last four decades, Loon Echo Land Trust has been a shining example of an organization that works with local residents, businesses, and fellow nonprofits to protect land through conservation easements, land purchases, and land donations. LELT is guided by a mission to make these beautiful venues accessible to more people. NSB is proud to support LELT and its wide contributions, the impact of which will be felt for generations to come.”

Current LELT projects include the restoring a wetland habitat and designing a multi-use trail plan in Casco with the Outdoor Sport Institute, the construction of a pedestrian trail and an off-street parking area for a 360-acre property on Sebago Cove in Naples, and the upgrade of a field loop at Mayberry Hill in Casco to become suitable for use by wheeled mobility devices.

“NSB’s continuing commitment to the positive difference we are trying to make is inspiring and is helping to strengthen our communities,” said Markot. “We’re very thankful.”

There are many ways to extend a helping hand to LELT. To make a donation, visit lelt.org/ways-to-give. To learn about volunteering your time to maintain a trail or even offer office support, visit lelt.org/volunteering. To discover more about the Loon Echo Trek for the Trails, visit lelt.org/trek.