As we settle into the winter season, it’s a perfect moment to reflect on the collective progress we made throughout 2025 and to look ahead with optimism and renewed purpose. Our Annual Report showcased the meaningful strides we’ve taken together to strengthen the ecological resilience of the SLELO region, from expanding early detection efforts to advancing restoration at our PCAs. These accomplishments speak not only to the dedication of our staff, partners, and volunteers, but also to the power of collaboration at every level of our work.

This newsletter highlights some of the stories and efforts behind those accomplishments. You’ve read about habitat restoration supporting the Blanding’s turtle, progress on restoration and forest health, advancements in early detection and rapid response along highly visited trail systems, and emerging research that deepens our understanding of invasive species across ecosystems. These articles illustrate the diversity, reach, and impact of SLELO’s partnerships across the region and how integrated our work has become, from riparian systems to upland forests.

As we turn our attention to the year ahead, our  Annual Work Plan builds on this momentum with purpose and clarity. Guided by our Strategic Plan, our actions for 2026 strengthen prevention pathways, expand early detection networks, enhance management effectiveness, and deepen our investment in ecological restoration and community engagement. New initiatives, such as piloting aquatic plant restoration, expanding biocontrol opportunities, improving data and UAV-based monitoring, and advancing our Pledge to Protect campaign, demonstrate how innovation and collaboration remain central to our mission.

The year ahead will undoubtedly bring new challenges, but it also brings remarkable opportunity. Our region is strongest when we work together. When agencies, land managers, scientists, volunteers, and community members unite around a shared vision of resilient lands and waters. I am continually inspired by your dedication, your expertise, and your belief in what we can accomplish collectively.

Thank you for being a vital part of this partnership. Let’s carry forward the momentum of 2025 and step boldly into 2026 with curiosity, determination, and a commitment to protecting the lands and waters we all cherish.

-Brittney Rogers