2026 Espy Land Heritage Award
About the Espy Land Heritage Award
Maine Coast Heritage Trust presents the Espy Land Heritage Award to an individual, organization, agency or coalition for innovative and inspiring contributions to land conservation in Maine. The award celebrates forward-thinking strategies, creative problem-solving, and bold leadership in addressing emerging challenges. Recipients often cultivate new partnerships and spark meaningful community engagement.
The Espy Land Heritage Award is named in honor of Jay Espy, long-time President of MCHT. In 2008, the award was endowed by MCHT’s Board to celebrate Jay’s visionary leadership and collaborative spirit. During his 24-year tenure, Jay was instrumental in helping new land trusts form, building statewide capacity, and championing innovative approaches to conservation. His unwavering commitment to local, community-driven conservation continues to inspire efforts across Maine.
Karin Tilberg is 2026 Espy Land Heritage Award Recipient
We are so pleased to announce that Karin Tilberg, recently retired president and CEO of the Forest Society of Maine, has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Espy Land Heritage Award. For more than three decades, Karin has been a steady, strategic force in Maine conservation — helping to shape landmark projects, cultivating lasting partnerships, and championing community-driven approaches to land stewardship. Her leadership has been instrumental in expanding the scale and impact of forest conservation statewide.
View listing of past ESPY Land Heritage Award Recipients
The recipient is honored at the Maine Land Conservation Conference, held annually in April, and is entitled to direct $5,000 to the nonprofit organization of their choosing.