BERLIN — The Lower Shore Land Trust hosted its annual Flannel Formal at Merry Sherwood Plantation on Nov. 11. The fundraising event, which was attended by 200 people, featured live music as well as food, games and a silent auction benefitting the land trust, which is devoted to helping landowners protect their property for future generations.
Three individuals were recognized for their contributions during this year’s event.
Laurie Lawton-Smith was recognized as the nonprofit’s volunteer of the year by Lower Shore Land Trust executive administrator Margot Resto
Recognized last week were Hugh Cropper IV, above presented his Stephen N. Parker Legacy Award by Patton. Below, volunteer Laurie Lawton-Smith was honored for her service by executive administrator Margot Resto.
Local attorney Hugh Cropper IV, a longtime Lower Shore Land Trust board member and the current board chair, was honored as the 2023 Stephen N. Parker Legacy Award recipient. The annual award is intended to recognize a landowner or conservation practitioner for their contributions to private land conservation on the Lower Eastern Shore. Cropper was selected for his strong commitment to and significant investments in land conservation, wetland restoration, reforestation, installation of grassland and pollinator habitat and improved water quality on the Lower Shore.
Kate Patton, executive director of the Lower Shore Land Trust, was presented proclamations from Sen. Chris Van Hollen and Sen. Ben Cardin for her contributions to the organization as she prepares to retire at the end of the year.
