There is much work to be done over the next few years to make the vision of the CLDS a reality. The following goals and objectives describe what can be expected as membership grows, and as volunteers and partner organizations get involved:

Short-Term Goals (12-24 Months)

The organizational groundwork for the CLDS has been established.  Over the past year, we have established a Board of Directors, drafted our by-laws, and acquired 501(c)(3) tax exempt status. Meetings with potential partners have helped refine the Center’s objectives and chart a course for its future. A membership recruitment campaign is also underway to bring in volunteers that can grow the CLDS by contributing their service, coordinating fundraising activities, applying for grants, and offering new ideas and perspectives. Marketing materials, such as our website and quarterly newsletter, have also been developed to inform others about the CLDS, its vision, and the value it will add to the community.

Intermediate Goals (2-5 Years)

During the next several years, the CLDS will continue to develop its educational programs and host special events. This will include workshops and seminars in landscape design, organic gardening practices, and sustainable agriculture; helping to establish other community and demonstration gardens throughout the area; and conducting field trips, and sponsoring garden tours throughout the region. Fundraising and grant-writing will continue in order to bring in the funds necessary for the CLDS's future education center. Once the future home of the CLDS is approved, a master site plan will be completed to create a vision for the Center and guide its development.

Long-Term Goals (5-10 Years)

Once the master plan is completed, abundant energy and enormous resources will be needed to develop the site and turn the vision into a reality. Educational programs for adults and children will continue to grow as the Center develops. The Visitor Center will be designed to be a model of energy efficient design and cutting edge green technology. The surrounding landscape will be functional as well as beautiful, and demonstrate sustainable design strategies such as harvesting rainwater, recycling wastes, and reducing energy consumption. New gardens will also be established for design inspiration and horticultural study, as well as for school and community food production and agricultural study. Paid staff will be hired to fulfill the mission of the Center, creating valuable jobs for the area. Although likely to be developed in phases, it is hoped that by the end of its first decade the CLDS will be regarded as THE primary destination and educational resource for people of all ages throughout northeastern Pennsylvania who seek to be better connected to the land.