We need help finding funds so we can do more things like improvements to the hot springs area such as our wastewater treatment plant upgrades, increase programs at the ranch, do more research on the bats, and more. This includes everything from writing grants to organizing fundraisers to soliciting for donated goods and/or services. Please contact OLT’s Development Director for more information.
We have started conducting inventories of the flora and fauna of OLT properties and need help completing this project. Are you able to identify and key out plant or animal species? Do you have an interest in compiling historic and/or cultural documents or doing research into past activity on OLT lands?
We can always use help with the maintenance of our numerous facilities, from cabins to trails. Do you have carpentry, painting, plumbing, mechanical repair, or similar skills? We also have an ongoing battle with non-native species and wildfire mitigation.
Organize and/or Staff Special Events
We can always use help organizing and staffing special events such as our annual Member Appreciation Weekend, silent auctions, or raffle.
Would you like to attend a community event on behalf of OLT? As part of our community outreach efforts we attend the Crestone Music Festival, 4th of July in Crestone, and the Fall Festival in Saguache.
Many times we have projects that require special skills or expertise. If you have special talents (legal, information technology, public relations, natural resource, graphic design, artistic, etc.) that you would like to offer, please let us know.
Orient Land Trust has five active committees. Are you interested in participating in the Resource Development, Board Development, Land Management Plan, Land Action, or Investment Committees? Get Involved today! See here for Current Committee Descriptions and Members.
Every July, three seats open on the Orient Land Trust Board of Directors. We solicit applicants with interest and time to fill these positions. The Board is legally and fiscally responsible for the organization. It sets policy, establishes goals and budgets, and hires and monitors the performance of the Executive Director. One-third of the directors are elected for terms of three years at the annual meeting each July. Board members are volunteers. Read the complete position description. If you're interested, please submit a letter of intent and resume to the Board Development Committee, Orient Land Trust, PO Box 65, Villa Grove, CO 81155 or via e-mail. Please highlight your experience with nonprofits (including volunteer boards), fundraising, finance, work on committees, volunteerism, familiarity with OLT, your interests and expertise, and why the board would want you as its newest member. Any individual who is interested in serving on the Board of Directors is strongly encouraged to attend at least one board meeting in advance. The Board Development Committee encourages individuals to submit letters of intent at any time.
Would you like to help forge a link between OLT and your local businesses and/or organizations? Help keep your favorite groups stocked with OLT literature. Initially, ask businesses and organizations to display brochures and then check back with them every couple months to restock.
Each year we publish an annual newsletter to thousands of people and occasionally we send special mailings. We need volunteers to stuff and seal envelopes, attach stamps and sort mail. Would you like to help out?
Join our Volunteer Trails Team! We are looking for volunteers to work on OLT’s Trails Team. The group will work on scheduled days to maintain existing trails and construct new ones. We need experienced trail blazers to lead work days as well as strong, active people to work them. If you have an interest, but no experience – No problem! We will teach you the necessary skills. Contact us at 719.256.5212 or to get involved.
Check in the Welcome Center for a list of projects that can be completed in a few hours.
Every modern comfort Valley View's visitors enjoy, from the sauna to the cooking facilities, operate entirely “off-grid”.
Most are powered using a highly efficient hydroelectric power plant. The same spring waters our guests soak in also warms our cabins, nourishes the plants and wildlife, and generates a moderate amount of electrical power. We dispense this limited electricity as wisely as possible, off-loading these demands as need be to compensate for drought seasons.
The hot springs facility operates entirely off-grid and is profoundly affected by precipitation and visitor usage. As part of our educational mission, we've shared this and other natural resources with 27,000 visitors annually for decades. All energy conserved by guests is directed through our governor and into extra hot water for the soaking they so enjoy. Visitor's interest is further developed with guided Hydro tours, active research, and educational campaigns. These direct connections have inspired sustainable living practices for generations forming a wide-spread community of tourists, locals, and environmental enthusiasts. We've cultivated long-standing partnerships with schools, government, local, and environmental organizations including an engineering school who's freshman class created sustainable energy designs for our newest property, a historic ranch and campus. Simply put, the possibilities are tremendous!
Nearly all our cabins and buildings are heated with gentle geothermal water. The spring water slowly passes through the floor, radiating a comfortable and constant warmth like no other. The water then passes on to power the hydroelectric system, saturate riparian habitats, and support our threatened species of fish.
[technical / history brochure]
AMENDED AND RESTATED
BYLAWS
OF
ORIENT LAND TRUST
as of July 18, 2020
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 2.2 Designation of Members
Section 2.4 Transfer of Membership
ARTICLE III.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Section 3.2 Qualifications, Number, Classification, Election and Tenure
Section 3.3 Resignation; Removal; Renewal; Vacancies
Section 3.6 Notice of Meetings
Section 3.13 Meetings by Telephone
Section 3.13 Governmental Liaisons (Repealed)
Section 3.14 Action Without a Meeting
ARTICLE IV.
OFFICERS AND AGENTS
Section 4.1 Designation and Qualifications
Section 4.2 Election and Term of Office
Section 4.6 Authority and Duties of Officers
Section 5.2 General Standards of Conduct for Directors and Officers
Section 5.3 Conflicts of Interest
Section 5.4 Liability of Directors for Unlawful Distributions
Section 5.5 Loans to Directors and Officers Prohibited
ARTICLE VI.
RECORDS OF THE CORPORATION
Section 6.2 Accounting Records
Section 6.3 Records in Written Form
Section 6.4 Records Maintained at Principal Office
Section 7.2 Conveyances and Encumbrances
Section 7.3 Designated Contributions
Section 7.5 References to Internal Revenue Code
Section 7.6 Principles of Construction
Section 7.8 Statement of Values
ARTICLE I.
Section 1.1 Business Offices. The current business office is located at 64393 County Road GG, P.O. Box 65, Villa Grove, Colorado 81155. The Corporation may at any time and from time to time change the location of its principal office. The Corporation may have such other offices, either within or outside Colorado, as the board of directors may designate or as the affairs of the Corporation may require from time to time.
Section 1.2 Registered Office. The current registered office is located at c/o Greg Powell, Powell & Murphy, P.C., 417 West 1st Street, P.O. Box 1380, Salida, CO 81201. The registered office required by the Colorado Revised Nonprofit Corporation Act (the "Act") to be maintained in Colorado may be changed from time to time by the board of directors or by the officers of the Corporation, or to the extent permitted by the Act by the registered agent of the Corporation, provided in all cases that the street addresses of the registered office and of the business office or home of the registered agent of the Corporation are identical.
Section 2.1 Nonvoting Members. The Corporation shall have no voting members. However, the Corporation may have such classes of nonvoting members as may be designated from time to time by resolution of the board of directors. Each class shall have the qualifications, rights, privileges, limitations and obligations determined by the board of directors; provided, however, that no members as such shall have the right to vote or otherwise participate in the management of the Corporation.
Section 2.2 Designation of Members. New members of any class may be elected or otherwise designated at any time by the board of directors or in any other manner specified by the board of directors.
Section 2.3 Membership Dues. The board of directors may establish such membership initiation fees, periodic dues and other assessments, which may vary by class of membership, and such rules and procedures for the manner and method of payment, the collection of delinquent dues and assessments and the proration or refund of dues and assessments in appropriate cases as the board of directors shall deem necessary or appropriate.
Section 2.4 Transfer of Membership. Membership in the Corporation is nontransferable. Members shall have no ownership rights or beneficial interests of any kind in the assets of the Corporation.
ARTICLE III.
Section 3.1 General Powers. Except as otherwise provided in the Act, the articles of incorporation or these bylaws, all corporate powers shall be exercised by or under the authority of, and the business and affairs of the Corporation shall be managed by, its board of directors.
Section 3.2 Qualifications, Number, Classification, Election and Tenure.
(a) Qualifications. Each director must be a natural person who is eighteen years of age or older. A director need not be a resident of Colorado. Directors shall be selected so as to provide the board with expertise in education, science, land and wildlife conservation, natural resource management, alternative energy, naturism, recreation, financial matters, legal affairs, fundraising, nonprofit management, and other qualifications determined by the board of directors. Directors shall also be selected to establish useful connections with local, county, state and federal agencies and other nonprofit organizations that share the Corporation's purposes and objectives.
(b) Number. The number of directors of the Corporation shall not be less than three nor more than nine, as determined by the board of directors from time to time. Any action of the board of directors to change the number of directors to a number outside the range specified in the preceding sentence, whether expressly by resolution or by implication through the election of additional directors, shall constitute an amendment of these bylaws expanding the range of the number of directors, provided such action otherwise satisfies the requirements for amending these bylaws as provided in the Act, the articles of incorporation or these bylaws.
(c) Election and Tenure. At each annual meeting of the board of directors, the number of directors equal to the number whose term expires at the end of such meeting shall be elected by the board of directors to hold office for a three-year term ending at the third succeeding annual meeting. Each director so elected shall hold office until such director's term expires or until such director's earlier death, resignation or removal or renewal.
Section 3.3 Resignation; Removal; Vacancies.
(a) Resignation. Any director may resign at any time by giving written notice to the chair of the board or to the secretary of the corporation. A director's resignation shall take effect at the time specified in such notice, and unless otherwise specified therein, the acceptance of such resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective. A director shall be deemed to have resigned in the event of such director's incapacity as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction.
(b) Attendance Requirement. Any director who fails to attend three meetings of the board of directors in any twelve month period with or without a reasonable excuse shall be deemed to have resigned as a director, if such failure to attend is confirmed by an affirmative vote of the board of directors, in which case the effective date of such resignation shall be the date of such vote by the board of directors.
(c) Removal. Any director may be removed at any time, with or without cause, by the affirmative vote of a majority of the other directors then in office.
(d) Renewal. Any director that wishes to renew, and thereby extend their original three-year term by another three-year term, must make that request known to the board of directors at least sixty (60) days prior to the annual meeting. The board of directors will then confirm or deny such requests by an affirmative vote of the board of directors prior to the annual meeting..
(e) Vacancies. Any vacancy of an elected director may be filled by the affirmative vote of a majority of the remaining directors though less than a quorum. A director elected to fill a vacancy shall hold the office for the unexpired term of such director's predecessor in office. Any directorship to be filled by reason of an increase in the number of directors shall be filled by the affirmative vote of a majority of the directors then in office, and a director so chosen shall hold office until the next election of the class of directors for which such director was chosen and thereafter until such director's successor shall have been elected and qualified, or until such director's earlier death, incapacity, resignation or removal. A vacancy that will occur at a specific later date may be filled before the vacancy occurs, but the new director may not take office until the vacancy occurs.
Section 3.4 Annual and Regular Meetings. An annual meeting of the board of directors shall be held during the month of July at the time and place, either within or outside Colorado, as determined by the board, for the purpose of electing directors and officers and for the transaction of such other business as may come before the meeting. There shall be at least three additional regular meetings of the board of directors between the Annual Meetings of the board as established by the board at least two months prior to the holding of such regular meeting and which shall be held at the time and place, either within or outside Colorado. Neither the business to be transacted at, nor the purpose of, any meeting of the board of directors need be specified in the notice or waiver of notice.
Section 3.5 Special Meetings. Special meetings of the board of directors may be called by or at the request of the president/chair of the board or any two directors. The person or persons authorized to call special meetings of the board of directors may fix the time and place, either within or outside Colorado, for holding any special meeting of the board called by them.
Section 3.6 Notice of Meetings.
(a) Requirements. Notice of each meeting of the board of directors stating the date, time and place of the meeting shall be given to each director at such director's business or residential address at least five days prior thereto by the mailing of written notice by first class, certified or registered mail, or at least two days prior thereto by personal delivery or private carrier of written notice or by telephone, facsimile, electronic transmission or any other form of wire or wireless communication (and the method of notice need not be the same as to each director). Written notice, if in a comprehensible form, is effective at the earliest of: (i) the date received; (ii) five days after its deposit in the United States mail, as evidenced by the postmark, if mailed correctly addressed and with first class postage affixed; and (iii) the date shown on the return receipt, if mailed by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, and the receipt is signed by or on behalf of the addressee. Oral notice is effective when communicated in a comprehensible manner. If transmitted by facsimile, electronic transmission or other form of wire or wireless communication, notice shall be deemed to be given when the transmission is complete.
(b) Waiver of Notice. A director may waive notice of any meeting before or after the time and date of the meeting stated in the notice. Except as otherwise provided in this Section 3.6(b), the waiver shall be in writing and signed by the director entitled to the notice. Such waiver shall be delivered to the Corporation for filing with the corporate records, but such delivery and filing shall not be conditions of the effectiveness of the waiver. A director's attendance at or participation in a meeting waives any required notice to that director of the meeting unless: (i) at the beginning of the meeting or promptly upon the director's later arrival, the director objects to holding the meeting or transacting business at the meeting because of lack of notice or defective notice and does not thereafter vote for or assent to action taken at the meeting; or (ii) if special notice was required of a particular purpose pursuant to the Act or these bylaws, the director objects to transacting business with respect to the purpose for which such special notice was required and does not thereafter vote for or assent to action taken at the meeting with respect to such purpose.
Section 3.7 Deemed Assent. A director of the Corporation who is present at a meeting of the board of directors when corporate action is taken is deemed to have assented to all action taken at the meeting unless (i) the director objects at the beginning of the meeting, or promptly upon the director's arrival, to holding the meeting or transacting business at the meeting and does not thereafter vote for or assent to any action taken at the meeting; or (ii) the director contemporaneously requests the director's dissent or abstention as to any specific action taken be entered in the minutes of the meeting; or (iii) the director causes written notice of the director's dissent or abstention as to any specific action to be received by the presiding officer of the meeting before the adjournment thereof or by the Corporation promptly after the adjournment of the meeting. Such right of dissension or abstention is not available to a director who votes in favor of the action taken.
Section 3.8 Quorum and Voting. A majority of the directors in office immediately before a meeting begins shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting of the board of directors, and the vote of a majority of the directors present in person at a meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the board of directors, unless otherwise required by the Act, the articles of incorporation or these bylaws. If less than a quorum is present at a meeting, a majority of the directors present may adjourn the meeting from time to time without further notice other than an announcement at the meeting, until a quorum shall be present.
Section 3.9 Voting by Proxy. For purposes of determining a quorum with respect to a particular proposal, and for purposes of casting a vote for or against a particular proposal, a director may be deemed to be present at a meeting and to vote if the director has granted a signed written proxy to another director who is present at the meeting, authorizing the other director to cast the vote that is directed to be cast by the written proxy with respect to the particular proposal that is described with reasonable specificity in the proxy. Except as provided in this Section 3.9 and as permitted by Section 3.15, directors may not vote or otherwise act by proxy.
Section 3.10 Compensation. Directors do not serve for personal financial interest and will not be compensated. However, the reasonable expenses of directors for attendance at board meetings may be paid or reimbursed by the Corporation. In limited circumstances and only in accordance with the Corporation’s Conflict of Interest policy, Consultant policy, and any and all other applicable policies, the Corporation may compensate a director for professional services that would otherwise be contracted out. Any compensation must be in compliance with charitable trust laws.
Section 3.11 Committees. By one or more resolutions adopted by the vote of a majority of the directors present in person at a meeting at which a quorum is present, the board of directors may designate from among its members an executive committee and from among its members and non-members of the board of directors one or more committees, each of which, to the extent provided in the resolution establishing such committee, shall have and may exercise all of the authority given it bythe board of directors, except as prohibited by the Act. The delegation of authority to any committee shall not operate to relieve the board of directors or any member of the board from any responsibility or standard of conduct imposed by law or these bylaws. Rules governing procedures for meetings of any committee shall be the same as those set forth in these bylaws or the Act for the board of directors unless the board or the committee itself determines otherwise. The Executive Director and Deputy Director shall serve as an ex-officio non-voting member on all committees, except for the Governance Committee. S/he may be invited to attend meetings not involving Director recruitment.
Section 3.12 Executive Committee. The board of directors shall elect an Executive Committee at the Annual Meeting that shall serve until the following Annual Meeting. This Committee shall be responsible for the general supervision of the affairs of the Corporation. The Board Chair, Vice-Chair, and Treasurer shall be members of this Committee. The Executive Director and Deputy Director shall serve as an ex-officio non-voting member of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee shall meet at such times and places as shall be designated by the Board Chair. The Executive Committee may, between regular meetings of the board, but never in substitution for such meetings, exercise the powers as authorized by the Board of Directors, except as prohibited by the Act. A majority of the members of the Executive Committee present and voting shall be binding as to the action taken by the Executive Committee.
Section 3.13 Advisory Board Members, Advisory Boards, and Advisory Committees. The board of directors, from time to time, may elect individual non-voting advisory board members. The board of directors, from time to time, may also form one or more advisory boards, advisory committees, or other bodies composed of such members, having such rules of procedure, and having such chair, as the board of directors shall designate. The name, objectives and responsibilities of each such advisory board member, advisory board, and/or advisory committee, and the rules and procedures for the conduct of his/her/its activities, shall be determined by the board of directors. An advisory board member, advisory board, and/or committee, may provide such advice, service, and assistance to the Corporation, and carry out such duties and responsibilities for the Corporation as may be specified by the board of directors; except that, if any such entity has one or more members thereof who are entitled to vote on advisory board or committee matters and who are not then also directors, such advisory and/or committee member may not exercise any power or authority reserved to the board of directors by the Act, the articles of incorporation or these bylaws. Further, no advisory board member, advisory board, and/or committee shall have authority to incur any corporate expense or make any representation or commitment on behalf of the Corporation without the express approval of the board of directors and the president/chair of the board of the Corporation.
Section 3.14 Meetings by Telephone. Members of the board of directors or any committee thereof may participate in a regular, annual, or special meeting by, or conduct the meeting through the use of, any means of communication by which all directors participating may hear each other during the meeting. A director participating in a meeting by this means is deemed to be present in person at the meeting for the purposes of voting and establishing a quorum.
Section 3.15 Action Without a Meeting.
(a) Any action required or permitted to be taken at a meeting of the board of directors or any committee thereof may be taken without a meeting if each and every member of the board or committee in writing either: (i) votes for such action; (ii) votes against such action; or (iii) abstains from voting. Each director or committee member who delivers a writing described in this Section 3.15(a) to the Corporation shall be deemed to have waived the right to demand that action not be taken without a meeting.
(b) Action is taken under this Section 3.15 only if the affirmative vote for such action equals or exceeds the minimum number of votes that would be necessary to take such action at a meeting at which all of the directors then in office were present and voted.
(c) No action taken pursuant to this Section 3.15 shall be effective unless writings describing the action taken and otherwise satisfying the requirements of Section 3.15(a), signed by all directors and not revoked pursuant to Section 3.15(d), are received by the Corporation. Any such writing may be received by the Corporation by electronically transmitted facsimile or other form of wire or wireless communication providing the Corporation with a complete copy of the document, including a copy of the signature on the document. Action taken pursuant to this Section 3.15 shall be effective when the last writing necessary to effect the action is received by the Corporation unless the writings describing the action taken set forth a different effective date.
(d) Any director who has signed a writing pursuant to this Section 3.15 may revoke such writing by a writing signed and dated by the director describing the action and stating that the director's prior vote with respect thereto is revoked, if such writing is received by the Corporation before the last writing necessary to effect the action is received by the Corporation.
(e) Action taken pursuant to this Section 3.15 has the same effect as action taken at a meeting of directors and may be described as such in any document.
(f) All signed written instruments necessary for any action taken pursuant to this Section 3.15 shall be filed with the minutes of the meetings of the board of directors.
ARTICLE IV.
Section 4.1 Designation and Qualifications. The elected officers of the Corporation shall be a president/chair of the board, vice-chair, a secretary and a treasurer. The board of directors may also appoint, designate or authorize such other officers, assistant officers and agents, including a chief financial officer, a controller, assistant secretaries and assistant treasurers, as it may consider necessary or useful. One person may hold more than one office at a time. Officers need not be directors of the Corporation. All officers must be natural persons who are eighteen years of age or older.
Section 4.2 Election and Term of Office. The board of directors, or an officer or committee to which such authority has been delegated by the board of directors, shall elect or appoint the officers at or in conjunction with each annual meeting of the board of directors. If the election and appointment of officers shall not be held at or in conjunction with such meeting, such election or appointment shall be held as soon as convenient thereafter. Each officer shall hold office from the end of the meeting at or in conjunction with which such officer was elected or appointed until such officer's successor shall have been duly elected or appointed and shall have qualified, or until such officer's earlier death, resignation or removal.
Section 4.3 Compensation. The board chair/president and treasurer will not be compensated for professional services. The compensation, if any, of any other officer shall be as determined from time to time by the board of directors, or by an officer or a committee to which such authority has been delegated by the board of directors. To the extent reasonably feasible, the person or persons determining compensation shall obtain data on the compensation of officers holding similar positions of authority within comparable organizations, shall set the compensation based on such data and an evaluation of the officer's performance and experience as related to the requirements of the position, and shall document the basis for the determination including the comparison data used, the requirements of the position, and the evaluation of the officer's performance and experience. No payment of compensation (or payment or reimbursement of expenses) shall be made in any manner so as to result in the imposition of any liability under either Section 4941 or Section 4958 of the Internal Revenue Code or any other charitable trust laws in effect at this time or as they may be amended from time to time.
Section 4.4 Removal. Any officer or agent may be removed by the board of directors at any time, with or without cause, but removal shall not affect the contract rights, if any, as pursuant to Section 4.3 above, of the person so removed. Election, appointment or designation of an officer or agent shall not itself create contract rights.
Section 4.5 Vacancies. Any officer may resign at any time, subject to any rights or obligations under any existing contracts between the officer and the Corporation, by giving written notice to the president/chair of the board or to the board of directors. An officer's resignation shall take effect upon receipt by the Corporation unless the notice specifies a later effective date, and unless otherwise specified therein, the acceptance of such resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective. An officer shall be deemed to have resigned in the event of such officer's incapacity as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction. A vacancy in any office, however occurring, may be filled by the board of directors, or by any officer or committee to which such authority has been delegated by the board of directors, for the unexpired portion of the term. If a resignation is made effective at a later date, the board of directors may permit the officer to remain in office until the effective date and may fill the pending vacancy before the effective date with the provision that the successor does not take office until the effective date, or the board of directors may remove the officer at any time before the effective date and may fill the resulting vacancy.
Section 4.6 Authority and Duties of Officers. The officers of the Corporation shall have the authority and shall exercise the powers and perform the duties specified below and as may be additionally specified by the president/chair of the board, the board of directors or these bylaws, except that in any event each officer shall exercise such powers and perform such duties as may be required by law.
(a) President/Chair of the Board. The president/chair of the board shall (i) be the chief executive officer of the Corporation; (ii) preside at all meetings of the board of directors; (iii) see that all resolutions of the board of directors are carried into effect; and (iv) perform all other duties incident to the office and as from time to time may be assigned to the president/chair by the board of directors.
(b) Vice-Chair. The vice-chair shall assist the president/chair of the board and shall perform such duties as may be assigned to them by the chair or by the board of directors. The vice-chair shall, at the request of the chair, or in the chair's absence or inability or refusal to act, perform the duties of the chair and when so acting shall have all the powers of and be subject to all the restrictions on the chair.
(c) Secretary. The secretary shall (i) keep the minutes of the proceedings of the board of directors and any committees of the board; (ii) see that all notices are duly given in accordance with the provisions of these bylaws or as required by law; (iii) be custodian of the corporate records and of the seal of the Corporation; and (iv) be responsible to the president/chair of the board and be evaluated by him/her on behalf of the board and by the Executive Director; v) in general, perform all duties incident to the office of secretary and such other duties as from time to time may be assigned to such office by the Chair of the board of directors or the Executive Director.
(d) Treasurer. The treasurer shall (i) be the chief financial officer of the Corporation and have the care and custody of all its funds, securities, evidences of indebtedness and other personal property and deposit the same in accordance with the instructions of the board of directors; (ii) receive and give receipts and aquittances for moneys paid in on account of the Corporation, and pay out of the funds on hand all bills, payrolls and other just debts of the Corporation of whatever nature upon maturity; (iii) unless there is a controller, be the principal accounting officer of the Corporation and as such prescribe and maintain the methods and systems of accounting to be followed, keep complete books and records of account, prepare and file all local, state and federal tax returns and related documents, prescribe and maintain an adequate system of internal control, and prepare and furnish to the president/chair of the board and the board of directors statements of account showing the financial position of the Corporation and the results of its operations; (iv) monitor compliance with all requirements imposed on the Corporation as a tax-exempt organization described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code; (v) upon request of the board, make such reports to it as may be required at any time; and (vi) perform all other duties incident to the office of treasurer and such other duties as from time to time may be assigned to such office by the president/chair of the board or the board of directors.
(e) Executive Director. The Executive Director shall (i) be the chief operating officer of the Corporation with general responsibility for all day-to-day operations of the Corporation; (ii) propose, prepare and present to the board of directors specific programs and activities that will further the Corporation's purposes; (iii) direct and supervise the implementation of the programs and activities approved by the board of directors; (iv) serve as an ex-officio non-voting member on all Committees (except the Governance Committee) including the Executive Committee; (v) be responsible to the president/chair of the board and be evaluated by him/her on behalf of the board; and (vi) perform all other duties and responsibilities as from time to time may be assigned to the Executive Director by the president/chair of the board or the board of directors.
(f) Deputy Director. The Deputy Director shall (i) be the assistant chief operating officer of the Corporation; assisting the Executive Director with general responsibility for all day-to-day operations of the Corporation; (ii) assist the Executive Director with and propose, prepare and present to the board of directors specific programs and activities that will further the Corporation's purposes; (iii) assist the Executive Director with the direction and supervision of the implementation of the programs and activities approved by the board of directors; (iv) at the direction of the board or Executive Director; serve as an ex-officio non-voting member on all Committees (EXCEPT FOR THE GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE) including the Executive Committee; (v) be responsible to the Executive Director and president/chair of the board and be evaluated by him/her on behalf of the board; and (vi) perform all other duties and responsibilities as from time to time may be assigned by the Executive Director by the president/chair of the board or the board of directors.
Section 4.7 Surety Bonds. The board of directors may require any officer or agent of the Corporation to execute to the Corporation a bond in such sums and with such sureties as shall be satisfactory to the board, conditioned upon the faithful performance of such person's duties and for the restoration to the Corporation of all books, papers, vouchers, money and other property of whatever kind in such person's possession or under such person's control belonging to the Corporation.
ARTICLE V.
(a) Scope of Indemnification. The Corporation shall indemnify each director, officer, employee and volunteer of the Corporation to the fullest extent permissible under the laws of the State of Colorado, and may in its discretion purchase insurance insuring its obligations hereunder or otherwise protecting the persons intended to be protected by this Section 5.1. The Corporation shall have the right, but shall not be obligated, to indemnify any agent of the Corporation not otherwise covered by this Section 5.1 to the fullest extent permissible under the laws of the State of Colorado.
(b) Savings Clause; Limitation. If any provision of the Act or these bylaws dealing with indemnification shall be invalidated by any court on any ground, then the Corporation shall nevertheless indemnify each party otherwise entitled to indemnification hereunder to the fullest extent permitted by law or any applicable provision of the Act or these bylaws that shall not have been invalidated. Notwithstanding any other provision of these bylaws, the Corporation shall neither indemnify any person nor purchase any insurance in any manner or to any extent that would jeopardize or be inconsistent with the qualification of the Corporation as an organization described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, or that would result in the imposition of any liability under either section 4941 or section 4958 of the Internal Revenue Code.
Section 5.2 General Standards of Conduct for Directors and Officers.
(a) Discharge of Duties. Each director shall discharge the director's duties as a director, including the director's duties as a member of a committee of the board, and each officer with discretionary authority shall discharge the officer's duties under that authority (i) in good faith; (ii) with the care an ordinarily prudent person in a like position would exercise under similar circumstances; and (iii) in a manner the director or officer reasonably believes to be in the best interests of the Corporation.
(b) Reliance on Information, Reports, Etc. In discharging duties, a director or officer is entitled to rely on information, opinions, reports or statements, including financial statements and other financial data, if prepared or presented by: (i) one or more officers or employees of the Corporation whom the director or officer reasonably believes to be reliable and competent in the matters presented; (ii) legal counsel, a public accountant or another person as to matters the director or officer reasonably believes are within such person's professional or expert competence; or (iii) in the case of a director, a committee of the board of directors of which the director is not a member if the director reasonably believes the committee merits confidence. A director or officer is not acting in good faith if the director or officer has knowledge concerning the matter in question that makes reliance otherwise permitted by this Section 5.2(b) unwarranted.
(c) Liability to Corporation. A director or officer shall not be liable as such to the Corporation for any action taken or omitted to be taken as a director or officer, as the case may be, if, in connection with such action or omission, the director or officer performed the duties of the position in compliance with this Section 5.2.
(d) Director Not Deemed to be a "Trustee." A director, regardless of title, shall not be deemed to be a "trustee" within the meaning given that term by trust law with respect to the Corporation or with respect to any property held or administered by the Corporation including, without limitation, property that may be subject to restrictions imposed by the donor or transferor of such property.
Section 5.3 Conflicts of Interest.
(a) Definitions. The Corporation shall follow a written conflict of interest policy to ensure that any conflicts of interest or the appearance thereof are avoided or appropriately managed through disclosure, recusal or other means. A conflict of interest or appearance thereof can arise when any "insider" or any "party related to an insider" is in a position, or is perceived to be in a position, to be able to benefit personally (or create a benefit to a family member or other organization with which s/he is associated) from a decision s/he could make. An "insider" is any individual in a position to exercise substantial influence over the affairs of the Corporation and those with access to information not available to the general public. This specifically includes, without limitation, directors and officers of the Corporation, key staff and substantial contributors to the Corporation. A "party related to an insider " includes his or her extended family (including spouse, ancestors, descendants and siblings, and their respective spouses and descendants), an estate or trust in which the responsible person or any member of his or her extended family has a beneficial interest or a fiduciary responsibility, or an entity in which the responsible person or any member of his or her extended family is a director, trustee or officer or has a financial interest. A real or perceived conflict of interest includes any interest in any contract, transaction or other financial relationship with the Corporation, and any interest in an entity whose best interests may be impaired by the best interests of the Corporation including, without limitation, an entity providing any goods or services to or receiving any goods or services from the Corporation, an entity in which the Corporation has any business or financial interest, and an entity providing goods or services or performing activities similar to the goods or services or activities of the Corporation.
(b) Disclosure. If an insider is aware that the Corporation is about to enter into any transaction or make any decision in which s/he or another insider has a potential conflict of interest, (a "conflicting interest transaction"), such person shall: (i) immediately inform those charged with approving the conflicting interest transaction on behalf of the Corporation of the potential conflict of interest or conflicted insider; and (ii) aid the persons charged with making the decision by disclosing any material facts within the responsible person's knowledge that bear on the advisability of the Corporation entering into the conflicting interest transaction. The potentially conflicted insider shall not be entitled to take part in the discussion or vote on the decision to enter into such transaction.
(c) Approval of Conflicting Interest Transactions. The Corporation may enter into a conflicting interest transaction provided:
(i) The material facts as to the insider's relationship or interest and as to the conflicting interest transaction are disclosed or are known to the board of directors or to a committee of the board of directors that authorizes, approves or ratifies the conflicting interest transaction, and the board or committee in good faith authorizes, approves or ratifies the conflicting interest transaction by the affirmative vote of a majority of the disinterested directors on the board or committee, even though the disinterested directors are less than a quorum; or
(ii) The conflicting interest transaction is fair as to the Corporation; and
(iii) The steps taken to adhere to the Corporation’s Conflict of Interest policy are appropriately documented in the official minutes of the Corporation.
Section 5.4 Liability of Directors for Unlawful Distributions.
(a) Liability to Corporation. A director who votes for or assents to a distribution made in violation of the Act or the articles of incorporation of the Corporation shall be personally liable to the Corporation for the amount of the distribution that exceeds what could have been distributed without violating the Act or the articles of incorporation if it is established that the director did not perform the director's duties in compliance with the general standards of conduct for directors set forth in Section 5.2.
(b) Contribution. A director who is liable under Section 5.4(a) for an unlawful distribution is entitled to contribution: (i) from every other director who could be liable under Section 5.4(a) for the unlawful distribution; and (ii) from each person who accepted the distribution knowing the distribution was made in violation of the Act or the articles of incorporation, to the extent the distribution to that person exceeds what could have been distributed to that person without violating the Act or the articles of incorporation.
Section 5.5 Loans to Directors and Officers Prohibited. No loans shall be made by the Corporation to any of its directors or officers. Any director or officer who assents to or participates in the making of any such loan shall be liable to the Corporation for the amount of such loan until the repayment thereof.
Section 5.6 No Private Inurement. No part of the net earnings of the Corporation shall inure to the benefit of, or be distributable to, its directors, officers or other private persons, except that the Corporation shall be authorized to pay reasonable compensation for services rendered and to make payments and distributions in the furtherance of the Corporation's charitable and educational purposes to the extent consistent with law and the Articles of Incorporation and these bylaws. The Corporation shall not carry on any other activities not permitted to corporations exempt from federal income tax under IRC Section 501(c)(3).
Section 5.7 Distribution of Assets on Dissolution. The Corporation shall have perpetual existence; but in the event of the dissolution or the termination of its corporate existence, all its net assets shall be transferred, paid over, and delivered exclusively to or for the benefit of one or more scientific, charitable, educational or conservation organizations to be used and dedicated as nearly as practicable in accordance with the purposes of this Corporation as set forth herein, provided that no such assets shall be distributed other than to or for the benefit of organizations qualifying at the time of such distributions under the provisions of Sections 501(c)(3) and 170(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as may be amended.
ARTICLE VI.
Section 6.1 Minutes, Etc. The Corporation shall keep as permanent records minutes of all meetings of the board of directors, a record of all actions taken by the board of directors without a meeting, a record of all actions taken by a committee of the board of directors in place of the board of directors on behalf of the Corporation, and a record of all waivers of notices of meetings of the board of directors or any committee of the board of directors.
Section 6.2 Accounting Records. The Corporation shall maintain appropriate accounting records.
Section 6.3 Records in Written Form. The Corporation shall maintain its records in written form or in another form capable of conversion into written form within a reasonable time.
Section 6.4 Records Maintained at Principal Office. The Corporation shall keep a copy of each of the following records at its principal office:
(a) The articles of incorporation;
(b) These bylaws;
(c) A list of the names and business or home addresses of the current directors and officers;
(d) A copy of the most recent corporate report delivered to the Colorado secretary of state;
(e) All financial statements prepared for periods ending during the last three years;
(f) The Corporation's application for recognition of exemption and the tax-exemption determination letter issued by the Internal Revenue Service; and
(g) All other documents or records required to be maintained by the Corporation at its principal office under applicable law or regulation.
ARTICLE VII.
Section 7.1 Fiscal Year. The fiscal year of the Corporation shall be as established by the board of directors.
Section 7.2 Conveyances and Encumbrances. Property of the Corporation may be assigned, conveyed or encumbered by the president/chair of the board, executive director, and by such other officers of the Corporation as may be authorized to do so by the board of directors, and such authorized persons shall have power to execute and deliver any and all instruments of assignment, conveyance and encumbrance; however, the sale, exchange, lease or other disposition of all or substantially all of the property and assets of the Corporation shall be authorized only in the manner prescribed by applicable statute.
Section 7.3 Designated Contributions. The Corporation may accept any contribution, gift, grant, bequest or devise that is designated, restricted or conditioned by the donor, provided that the designation, restriction or condition is consistent with the Corporation’s general tax-exempt purposes. Donor-designated contributions will be accepted for special funds, purposes or uses, and such designations generally will be honored. However, the Corporation shall reserve all right, title and interest in and to and control over such contributions, and shall have authority to determine the ultimate expenditure or distribution thereof in connection with any such special fund, purpose or use. Further, the Corporation shall acquire and retain sufficient control over all donated funds (including designated contributions) to assure that such funds will be used exclusively to carry out the Corporation's tax-exempt purposes.
Section 7.4 Amendments. The power to alter, amend or repeal these bylaws and adopt new bylaws shall be vested solely in the board of directors.
Section 7.5 References to Internal Revenue Code. All references in these bylaws to provisions of the Internal Revenue Code are to the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and to the corresponding provisions of any subsequent federal tax laws.
Section 7.6 Principles of Construction. Words in any gender shall be deemed to include the other gender; the singular shall be deemed to include the plural and vice versa; the words "pay" and "distribute" shall also mean assign, convey and deliver; and the table of contents, headings and underlined paragraph titles are for guidance only and shall have no significance in the interpretation of these bylaws.
Section 7.7 Severability. The invalidity of any provision of these bylaws shall not affect the other provisions hereof, and in such event these bylaws shall be construed in all respects as if such invalid provision were omitted.
Section 7.8 Statement of Values. Any code of ethics is built on a foundation of widely shared values. The values of Orient Land Trust include
• Commitment to the public good
• Accountability to the public
• Commitment beyond the law
• Respect for the worth and dignity of individuals and nature
• Inclusiveness and social justice
• Respect for pluralism and diversity
• Transparency, integrity and honesty
• Responsible stewardship of resources
• Commitment to excellence and to maintaining the public trust.
These values lead directly to the Code of Ethics for Orient Land Trust. The values inform and guide the actions that this organization should take in developing its policies and informing its practices.
(END)
ORIENT LAND TRUST
BYLAWS CERTIFICATE
The undersigned certifies that she is the Secretary of Orient Land Trust, a Colorado nonprofit corporation, and that, as such, the undersigned is authorized to execute this certificate on behalf of said Corporation, and further certifies that the foregoing Bylaws are a complete and correct copy of the presently effective Bylaws of said Corporation.
Dated: October 19, 2013.
(signed)
Debra Hoffman
Secretary
IRS FORM 1023
ATTACHMENTS
FOR
ORIENT LAND TRUST
April 4, 2003
Contents
Part II, Item 1. Activities and Operational Information
Part II, Item 3. Fundraising Program
Part II, Item 4a and 4b. Directors and Officers
Part II, Item 8. Assets Used in Exempt Activity
Part II, Item 11. Membership
Part II, Item 12a. Visitor Fees and Charges
Financial Data, Statement of Revenue and Expenses...
Part IV, Item A, Column (b). Year 2002
Part IV, Item A, Column (c). Year 2003
Part IV, Item A, Column (d). Year 2004
Part II, Item 1. Activities and Operational Information
Background Information
Orient Land Trust (OLT) is located in Saguache County in the San Luis Valley of south-central Colorado. The goal of this organization is to preserve and protect the natural and historical elements of the land in the area that includes Valley View Hot Springs and the Orient Mine, including approximately 1,900 acres. See map attached as Exhibit C.
Valley View Hot Springs is located on a parcel of land that was originally homesteaded in 1873. It has been operated as a small rustic resort since the early 1900’s. Currently, many of the buildings still in use on the property date back to those early days. The creators of Orient Land Trust have operated Valley View Hot Springs as a family-oriented, naturist (clothing-optional) resort since 1975, and have owned it since 1979. Over the past twenty-five years, Valley View has acquired a large group of loyal and dedicated visitors. In addition to the repeat visitors, there are always many new visitors who are interested in the hot springs, bat colony, hydroelectric plant, spelunking, historical sites and other unique features of the area. Overall, visitors are a very diverse group made up of people from all age groups, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds, and they come from all over Colorado and beyond. They share a true appreciation of Valley View Hot Springs and the surrounding area for its simplicity, remoteness and beauty.
Orient Mine was an iron mine that began operation in the mid 1800’s and was abandoned by 1938. Purchased by the founders of OLT in 1984, the mine includes ruins of the original prospect high in the mountains, foundations of buildings in the town built later at a lower elevation, the narrow gauge railroad track which served until 1932 and the mine workings themselves. (See map in Exhibit C.) For the last thirty years it has been the summer home for a colony (estimated between 100,000 to 250,000) of Mexican free-tail bats - Tadarida Brasiliensis. It is the northernmost and largest bachelor colony known in North America.
The San Luis Valley, including Saguache County in particular, is experiencing growing development pressures. The lands to be preserved by OLT are located less than fifteen miles from the newest National Park in the country, the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Real estate prices have escalated rapidly in the last decade. There would be strong pressure on any future owners of this land to subdivide or develop it into a more upscale resort. The current owners of Valley View and Orient Mine decided to create OLT to provide a means for the ongoing protection and preservation of this area. Orient Land Trust is a Colorado Nonprofit Corporation since March 2001. Starting January 1, 2004, the founders will lease the land and facilities to OLT for $1 per year. OLT will protect the land and operate the facilities. Then, over time, the owners plan to donate their fee simple ownership of the land to OLT as well.
Activities of the Orient Land Trust
A. Providing and managing the facilities which enable the public to appreciate the unique features of the area.
Percent of time devoted to this activity: 40%
OLT is located at the end of a seven mile gravel road. It is surrounded on all sides by public lands. The nearest town (population 50) is twelve miles away. Valley View Hot Springs provides lodging and other facilities to OLT visitors, who would otherwise have to travel a great distance for accommodations. Visitors are able to stay in rustic historic cabins, one of two small lodges, or a campground.
Valley View Hot Springs itself will continue to be a focal point for OLT. It provides the public with an opportunity to enjoy hot springs in a natural setting, as opposed to most other hot springs located on private property which are generally extensively developed. At Valley View, visitors are able to soak in natural gravel bottomed pools and to feel the surge of the carbonated hot spring water coming up all around them. As the hot springs are truly an oasis, it is not uncommon to have wildlife approach a pool for a drink while people are soaking. Visitors are able to become a part of the natural environment around them without a barrier of any kind.
But the appreciation of the water does not end with the pools. While visiting OLT property, the public is educated about how the same water they have been soaking in is also used to generate hydroelectric power for all electrical needs and to provide a direct source of heat for the buildings on the property. One of the springs also provides a source of crystal pure drinking water.
The existing facilities to be managed by OLT include:
- 5 rustic cabins
- 2 small (4 room) lodges
- restrooms
- welcome center and office
- 2 saunas
- swimming pool
- 4 natural hot spring ponds
- camping areas
- hydroelectric power plant
- road access and trails
- bat cave viewing area
- 1 employee residence
These facilities will be managed in a manner consistent with the mission and goals of Orient Land Trust; specifically, to preserve, protect, conserve, restore and enhance the natural systems and resource values of the property. All aspects of the property, especially the natural resources, will be closely monitored to assure that levels of use are not detrimental.
B. Developing public outreach programs to encourage the use of the unique resources of the land by both professional and lay people for educational purposes.
Percent of time devoted to this activity: 25%
1. Geology
Who is involved in this activity: Volunteers, including members of the Board, and OLT staff, working with professionals, educators and lay people.
Activity to date: The Orient Mine is an area of scientific interest because of the unusual geology which caused the iron deposit to form. The hot springs area is interesting geologically because of the fault line which caused the hot springs to surface. Over the past three decades at least three people have pursued graduate degrees based on research of the mine or fault zone area. More recently, in June 2001, one of the Board members, Dr. James McCalpin, conducted a college level course in the field studying the geology of the fault scarp running through the property. A trench has been dug across the fault line on the property to enable students, professionals and other lay persons to learn about the geology of the fault zone. See Exhibit I for a list of the groups who have visited the exposed fault site. There is no charge for this activity.
Future Plans: Dr. McCalpin is developing associations with the area public schools to provide opportunities for students to learn about the geologic features of the trust lands.
2. Bat Colony
Who is involved in this activity: Volunteers, including members of the board, liaisons, and OLT staff, working with Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW) staff, other professionals, educators and lay people.
Activity to date: The colony of bats which summers at the Orient Mine has been a very popular educational tool for two decades. This includes a master’s degree earned by a student who lived at the mine and studied the bats for two summers. Nearly every summer the CDOW has brought a group, largely made up of public school science teachers, to the mine to learn about the bats and see their out-flight. In the early 1990’s the Audubon Chapter from Salida, Colorado, brought a group of close to a hundred people to observe the bats. On a regular basis, many of Valley View’s visitors hike to the mine to witness the out-flight summer evenings. In 2002, work was completed to improve safety and access to the “glory hole” where the bats emerge. The Colorado Bureau of Mine Reclamation (CBMR), in conjunction with CDOW and OLT board implemented trail improvements, safety fencing and signage. There is no charge for this activity.
Future Plans: Expand current work with CDOW to have the Orient Mine become a “Watchable Wildlife” site. Work with CDOW, Bat Conservation International (BCI), CBMR and other organizations to continue improvement to trails and signage for the location.
3. Spelunking
Who is involved in this activity: OLT staff and several spelunking organizations.
Activity to date: The Orient Mine lies in a limestone layer that has been turned nearly vertical by the formation of the Rocky Mountains. Besides the man-made mine tunnels and shafts, natural caves have recently been discovered. Spelunking groups from the Colorado Air Force Academy, a local fire department and others have spent many hours surveying and mapping the passageways and caverns. Only a fraction of the natural cave has been explored to date. There is no charge for this activity.
Future Plans: Encourage the complete exploration and documentation of the natural cave. Possibly produce a video of the cave for the public to enjoy.
4. Hydroelectric and geothermal applications
Who is involved in this activity: Volunteers, members of the board, and OLT staff.
Activity to date: Hundreds of people, both local and visitors from far away, have toured the hydroelectric plant which provides all electricity, up to 93 kilowatts, used at Valley View Hot Springs. The hydroelectric plant was originally constructed in 1975 and expanded in 1981 with the help of a $28,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Appropriate Technology program. It has been featured on a PBS television series on alternative energy. Visitors are also educated about the use of geothermal energy to heat all buildings constructed in the last twenty-five years. Overall, Valley View Hot Springs is a model for renewable energy use, as it is completely off the local power grid and uses no fossil fuels other than in the larger vehicles. There is no charge for this activity.
Future Plans: OLT will continue to provide a resource for local schools, residents and other visitors to learn about hydroelectric and geothermal energy uses. We plan to keep up with developments in the electric vehicle industry and hydrogen production. We will possibly also build a geothermal greenhouse in the future.
In all of the areas of interest above, a variety of programs are being developed to offer to the public and interested groups. These may include: evening workshops, discussion groups, presentations, performances and course series; half day and full day seminars, weekend workshops, conferences or longer term programs of one or more weeks for in-depth study of selected topics.
5. General public outreach
Who is involved in this activity: OLT staff, members of the board, OLT members and volunteers.
Activity to date: In March 2001, shortly after the creation of OLT, a letter from OLT was included in a mailing to over 2,000 households on the Valley View Hot Springs’ mailing list. Its purpose was to educate the people who are likely to become supporters of OLT regarding its mission, proposed activities and goals and to encourage them to become supporting members of OLT. Since that time, at least two mailings a year have been sent to the entire mailing list, now over 4,000 households. The most recent mailing has greatly broadened OLT’s base of support among Valley View’s long time visitors. The OLT web site, Land Trust Alliance membership and Colorado Coalition of Land Trusts membership are very effective tools for public outreach. In addition, the Welcome Center presents information to acquaint all visitors with the existence of the Orient Land Trust and its mission and goals. Presently there are 460 donating members to the Orient Land Trust. By 2005 OLT memberships are expected to number over 1,500. Public outreach is also evidenced by a strong desire from people in a 250 mile radius area who wish to serve on the Board of Directors.
Future Plans: OLT will continue to send out regular mailings to all persons who have an interest in the continued preservation of these lands. The web site will expand its outreach to those who are not aware of the unique natural and historical features of OLT lands.
C. Pursuing ongoing projects with various agencies and groups to promote the preservation of the lands proposed to be included in the Orient Land Trust.
Percent of time devoted to this activity: 20%
Biological Inventory Study
Who is involved in this activity: Volunteers, board of directors, members of OLT, and OLT staff, working with Colorado Natural Heritage Program (CNHP), The Nature Conservancy (TNC) and Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW), Soil Conservation District and San Luis Valley Graphical Information System.
Activity to date: In 1998 the Colorado Natural Heritage Program prepared a biological inventory study for The Nature Conservancy. In that study the Valley View Hot Springs and Orient Mine area was found to have high biodiversity significance. See Exhibit D. OLT is working to identify and preserve the plant and animal populations which have special significance.
Future plans: OLT will continue to work closely with concerned government agencies to ensure that the environment, including the water, plants and animals, particularly indigenous species, and all other components of the ecosystem, are protected. A baseline will be prepared for the lands under the control of OLT so that the success of preservation policies can be measured. OLT will utilize tools such as habitat conservation and cooperative management plans to facilitate the goal of preserving the environment.
Colorado Natural Areas Designation
Who is involved in this activity: Volunteers including members of the board, and OLT staff, working with Colorado Natural Areas Council (CNAC).
Activity to date: In November, 2001, the CNAC, a division of the Colorado State Parks, registered the Orient Mine with the Colorado Natural Areas Program. In September, 2002, the Council visited the Orient Mine. Following that visit, Articles of Designation to include the Orient Mine in the Colorado Natural Areas Program were drafted and awaiting approval. See Exhibit E.
Future plans: The Board will continue to work with the CNAC to achieve official designation of the Orient Mine as a Colorado Natural Area.
Preserving the ecology, particularly the bat habitat, of the Orient Mine area.
Who is involved in this activity: Volunteers, including OLT members and OLT Board members and liaisons, working with officials of the Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW), and representatives of Bat Conservation International (BCI).
Activity to date: In 1999 members of CDOW, BCI, The Nature Conservancy and wildlife officers from other states met at Valley View Hot Springs for a workshop. Discussion was held on the best way to make the Orient Mine readily accessible to the public for the appreciation of the bat colony, while preserving the environment of the area. See Exhibit F. In July, 2001, the Bats/Inactive Mines Project held a meeting at the Orient Mine which was attended by eleven of their staff and volunteers.
Future Plans: Continue working with all of the above agencies and organizations, and others, to assure that the habitat of the bats is preserved.
Preservation of the history of Valley View Hot Springs and Orient Mine.
Who is involved in this activity: Volunteers, board of directors, OLT members, OLT staff and historical organizations.
Activity to date: In the years they have operated Valley View Hot Springs, the founders have endeavored to preserve all the structures remaining which are representative of the time when the area around the hot springs was first inhabited and developed. An abstract of the property has been completed. Articles published in several newspapers as well as our own newsletters solicit photos and personal accounts from the early years. The Welcome Center has a library which has numerous books and collected photos about the Denver Rio Grande Narrow Gauge Railroad, Orient Mine, Valley View Hot Springs and San Luis Valley. The staff is educated about the history of OLT lands, as well the history of the rest of the San Luis Valley, to enable them to enrich the public’s appreciation of the history of the area. Many people visit who are interested in the history of the area.
Future Plans: The OLT property is mentioned in numerous historical publications. A project to publish a document that incorporates all of these publications along with primary sources is planned.
D. Fund-raising
Percent of time devoted to this activity: 7%
Who is involved in this activity: Board of directors and OLT staff and volunteers.
Activity to date: Since its beginning in 2001, OLT has quickly developed a broad base of support among people who care about this special place. The number of contributors at the end of 2001 was 90; that number, currently 460, is steadily climbing. OLT has also raised funds by selling candy and donated aluminum cans. See financial statements in Form 1023 Part IV. The total amount donated to date is $44,000.
Future Plans: In addition to continuing to broaden the base of public support through regular mailings to individuals who have expressed interest in the future of these lands, board members and staff with experience in grant-writing and other forms of fundraising will pursue other sources of funding. In particular, plans will be developed to provide a source of funding which would enable OLT to purchase the properties as described in the next section if and when they become available.
E. Pursue acquisition of the remaining property designated as Primary Trust Lands (not already slated to be donated by founders).
Percent of time devoted to this activity: 5%
Who is involved in this activity: Board of directors and OLT staff.
1. Remainder of Section 36 owned by Colorado State Land Board. (480 acres)
Activity to date: A surface and recreation lease currently held by founders will be transferred to the Orient Land Trust. The founders have had ongoing negotiations with the State Land Board to acquire this property for the last fifteen years.
Future Plans: The board will keep contact with the Colorado State Land Board. If an agreement is reached, OLT will initiate a fund-raising drive to acquire the property.
2. Cottonwood Ranch (760 acres)
Activity to date: The Cottonwood Ranch is downstream from OLT lands. The hot springs water continues onto this property. Currently, the part of the ranch adjacent to OLT has been divided into five smaller lots which are for sale. With the mission of preserving land in the area, this property would be ideal for inclusion in OLT. Part of it could be developed as wetlands, with the rest continuing to operate as a working ranch. The board has expressed interest in purchasing the whole ranch and current owners have indicated they are willing to sell. In the fall 2002 mailing, a survey returned 1102 responses of which 88% approved of OLT acquiring the Cottonwood Ranch. Immediate donations totaled $11,960 and $647,000 was pledged over the next ten years.
Future Plans: The board will continue negotiations with the owners of Cottonwood Ranch to see if terms can be reached to achieve its inclusion in OLT.
2. Bishop property (10 acres)
Activity to date: OLT board has expressed interest in purchasing this property, but current owners are not interested in selling at this time.
Future Plans: The board will keep close contact with the current owners and if they agree to sell, will initiate a fund-raising drive to enable OLT to purchase it.
F. Staff Development
Percent of time devoted to this activity: 3%
Who is involved in this activity: Board of directors, OLT staff and volunteers.
Activity to date: In May, 2001, one of the founders of OLT attended a conference for the Southwest Region of the Land Trust Alliance (LTA). OLT directors have also attended meetings of other Land Trust organizations in the area. In addition, the staff of Valley View Hot Springs has been educated about OLT, its mission and goals. On December 15, 2002, the OLT board approved a resolution to bring OLT’s operating practices into compliance with the LTA’s Standards and Practices by the end of 2003.
Future Plans: Board members and staff will participate in other training opportunities, both within the organization and through other resources. Staff will also develop programs to attract volunteers to help with various OLT programs and to provide them with orientation, supervision, and recognition.
Part II, Item 3. Fundraising Program
To date, all of OLT’s fundraising has been in the form of soliciting donations from a broad base of individuals who have an interest in the future of these lands. See sample solicitation attached as Exhibit I.
Our fundraising efforts are directed toward the following:
Part II, Item 4a and 4b. Directors and Officers
Name and Address Positions Current Annual Compensation
Douglas Bishop, Board Director
29990 CR 65
Moffat, CO 81143
Robin Byers, Board Director
1530 Kalmia Ave
Boulder, CO 80304
Linda Joseph, Board Director and Chairperson
64001 CR DD
Moffat, CO 81143
James McCalpin, Board Director and Vice-chairperson
600 East Galena Avenue
P.O. Box 837
Crestone, CO 81131
Chris Miller, Board Director
3107 W Colorado Ave #231
Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Harold Pratt Board Director
7400 W Grant Ranch Blvd #24
Littleton, CO 80123
Enter new board members here March 3, 2003
Neil Seitz, Executive Director
P.O. Box 146
Villa Grove, CO 81155-0065
Terry Seitz, Treasurer
P.O. Box 146
Villa Grove, CO 81155-0065
Sonia Walter Secretary
P.O. Box 213
Villa Grove, CO 81155
Part II, Item 8. Assets Used in Exempt Activity
Part II, Item 11. Membership
As of February 2003 there are 480 members who have donated a total of $47,000. The members hail from 158 cities in 29 states.
Membership to Orient Land Trust (OLT) has several facets especially when OLT leases 1,170 acres of Valley View Hot Springs (VVHS) property starting January 1, 2004. At that time the membership will be linked to use of the property as well as current purposes and goals. Valley View Hot Springs has been a membership organization for 25 years. Orient Land Trust will convert the VVHS members to OLT members by the end of 2003. The total number of OLT members should be over 1,200 starting 2004.
Described below is a description of that merged annual membership.
11a. Membership Requirements
- The fees required for a membership may be satisfied (partially or fully) by several ways to allow for the many members who have expressed desire to do so.
- Payment
- Working on the property
- Working with public outreach or fundraising
- Donating goods or services
- The range of membership levels will be broad for the most public outreach.
- ($12) Minimum membership for the person who just wants to stay on the mailing list and keep informed.
- ($20 - $50) Low-range membership for those who:
- Don’t use the property but wish to contribute more than the minimum.
- Use the property but not on weekends and holidays.
- ($50 - $150) Mid-range membership for those who want limited weekend and holiday use of the property.
- ($150 - $250) High-range membership for those who want unlimited weekend and holiday use of the property.
- ($300 +) Ultra-membership for those who wish to give the most.
11b. Expanding Membership
- Using the membership and registration records from Valley View Hot Springs (VVHS) to contact groups who have been involved with Orient Land Trust property.
- 536 current VVHS members are not yet OLT members
- 1,273 addresses are previous VVHS member applicants
- 7,500 addresses other than (a) and (b) above have visited VVHS since the year 2000
- Expanding beyond people who have visited the property.
- World Wide Web
- Presence and sponsorship at various local events with membership materials
- Crestone Music Festival
- Villa Grove Pottery Workshop
- Saguache County Fall Festival
- Saguache County Museum Parade
- Evens in nearby towns of Center, Alamosa and Salida,
- Using current members to add friends as members. Current members are now located in 29 states.
- Board members will add members from their area which is big part of Colorado and New Mexico.
- See Exhibit I for Fundraising Materials Samples
- Pamphlets
- Newsletters
- Letters
11c. Membership Benefits
- The memberships described above may receive one or more benefits. These are possible benefits and not fully implemented. The following benefits still require normal admission and accommodation fees as required except the last (l).
- Newsletter mailed or email to member
- Membership card
- Summer weekday use of the property
- Winter weekend use of the property
- Unlimited use of the property
- Invitations to special events, seminars and gatherings
- Participation in special tours and outings
- Special recognition on the web and engraved items
- Accommodation reservation preference
- Special “members only” day
- Small item of gratitude such as a T-shirt or book
- Admission discount or pass
Part II, Item 12a. Visitor Fees and Charges
Type of Admission (Over 15 years old.) |
Winter Oct-Apr |
Summer May-Sept |
Less than 2 hour use | $2.00 | $8.00 |
Full day use | $6.00 | $12.00 |
Overnight use (Includes day use) |
$16.00 | $24.00 |
Type of Accommodation | Winter Oct-April |
Summer May-Sept |
Small Cabin | $15.00 | $30.00 |
Room with kitchen use | $22.00 | $30.00 |
Large Cabin | $30.00 | $45.00 |
Part IV, Item A, Column (b). Year 2002
Line 7 – Other Income
Recycled Donated Aluminum Cans
234
Line 7 – Total Amount
234
Line 22 – Other Expenses
Cost of Sales
3,252
Legal Expenses
3,660
Office Supplies
88
Permits, Licenses, Dues and Fees
356
Printing and Postage
68
Sales and Lodging Tax
54
Telecommunications
523
Line 22 – Total Amount
8,001
Part IV, Item A, Column (c). Year 2003
Line 17 – Officers & Directors Compensation
Name
Position
Time Devoted
Annual
(To be hired)
Assistant Director
Full Time starting August
15,000
Line 17 – Total Amount
$15,000
Line 22 – Other Expenses
Capital Equipment
3,500
Cost of Sales
3,300
Land Acquisition Program
28,500
Legal Expenses
4,000
Office Supplies
600
Other Programs
1,800
Payroll Company Costs
2,700
Permits, Licenses, Dues and Fees
600
Printing and Postage
400
Sales and Lodging Tax
100
Telecommunications
750
Vehicle Operation Expense
1,000
Volunteer Management Program
2,500
Line 22 – Total Amount
49,750
Part IV, Item A, Column (d). Year 2004
Line 15 – Contributions, gifts and grants
Recipient
Purpose
Amount
Bat Conservation International
Bat habitat management
500
Baca-Crestone Grande Land Trust
Annual membership
500
Crestone-Moffat Business Assoc.
Annual membership
100
KRCC Public Radio
Annual membership
100
KRZA Public Radio
Annual membership
100
Moffat Consolidated School
Teacher grants for field trips
600
Mountain Valley School
Teacher grants for field trips
600
Naturist Education Foundation
Annual membership
1,000
Rio Grande Headwaters Land Trust
Annual membership
500
Saguache County Museum
Annual membership
200
San Luis Valley Ecosystem Council
Annual membership
100
San Luis Valley Historical Society
Annual membership
100
San Luis Valley Regional Science Fair
Annual membership
500
Villa Grove Area Merchants Assoc.
Annual membership
100
Line 15 – Total Amount
$5,000
Line 17 – Officers & Directors Compensation
Name
Position
Time Devoted
Annual
Teresa Seitz
Book Keeper
900 Hours per year
13,000
(To be hired)
Assistant Director
Full Time
36,000
Neil Seitz
Executive Director
Full Time
48,000
Line 17 – Total Amount
$97,000
Line 22 – Other Expenses
Capital Equipment
19,000
Capital Projects
40,000
Cost of Sales
14,000
Guest Services
17,000
Land Acquisition Program
113,000
Office Supplies
5,000
Other Programs
9,000
Payroll Company Costs
50,000
Legal, Permits, Licenses, Dues and Fees
8,000
Printing and Postage
4,000
Sales and Lodging Tax
4,000
Telecommunications
3,000
Vehicle Operating Expense
6,000
Volunteer Management Program
11,000
Line 22 – Total Amount
303,000
Schedule I, Item 1. Nature of Predecessor’s Actuaries
Valley View Hot Springs maintained the land and rustic facilities, derived income from admission and user fees, employed eight people and operated for twenty-seven years.
Schedule I, Item 3. Relationship of Owners of Predecessor to Applicant Organization
Neil Seitz is a cofounder and interim executive director of Orient Land Trust. Teresa (Terry) Seitz is a cofounder and treasurer of the board of directors of Orient Land Trust. All above positions are currently without pay. Neil and Teresa Seitz may become paid employees of the applicant organization at a wage consistent with staff of similar organizations, to be determined by the disinterested members of the board of directors. Neil and Terry Seitz will also be substantial contributors of land to Orient Land Trust.
Schedule I, Item 4a and 4b. Terms of Transfer from Predecessor to Applicant Organization
Land and buildings will be donated by Neil and Teresa (Terry) Seitz parcel by parcel over a period of time scheduled by the donors or upon the death of both donors. Prior to the conveyance of fee simple title to various parcels, Neil and Terry Seitz may also donate conservation easements on one or more of the land parcels to third party organizations, such as the Colorado Division of Wildlife or The Nature Conservancy, in order to assure protection of the land.
The business of Valley View Hot Springs will be donated to OLT. OLT will assume all subsequent revenue, expenses, operations, liabilities and taxes.
Because no sale of property to OLT is contemplated, no appraisals are attached.
Schedule I, Item 5. Lease from Predecessor
All land and buildings, other than the personal residence of Neil and Terry Seitz, will be leased to OLT for $1 per year prior to their donation of various parcels to OLT. See lease attached as Exhibit G.
Schedule I, Item 7. New Operating Policies
The OLT Board of Directors, comprised of local community leaders and volunteers, will assume governance control and responsibility for all lands and operations.
Restrictions to admission will be based on capacity of the facilities, determined by monitoring and maintaining natural areas and standards of use, in order to ensure protection of OLT property.
Admission fees will be set to minimize financial barriers to access and use, and free use for educational and research purposes will be continued and expanded.
Financial support will shift to greater reliance on gifts, grants and membership fees.
AMENDED AND RESTATED
ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
OF
ORIENT LAND TRUST
Filed March 21, 2003
Colorado Secretary of State
Pursuant to the Colorado Revised Nonprofit Corporation Act, Orient Land Trust, a Colorado nonprofit corporation, hereby amends and restates in their entirety its articles of incorporation. These amended and restated articles of incorporation include amendments to the articles of incorporation adopted as provided in Colorado Revised Statutes ("C.R.S.") Section 7-130-102 by the board of directors of the corporation upon receiving the affirmative vote of a majority of the directors then in office. There are no voting members of the corporation; therefore, no member action was required to approve these amended and restated articles of incorporation. No approval of these amended and restated articles of incorporation by any person or body other than the board of directors is required. These amended and restated articles of incorporation (1) correctly set forth the provisions of the articles of incorporation, as amended, (2) have been duly adopted as required by law, and (3) supersede the original articles of incorporation and all amendments thereto.
ARTICLE I.
NAME
The name of the corporation is Orient Land Trust.
ARTICLE II.
DURATION
The corporation shall have perpetual existence.
ARTICLE III.
PURPOSES AND POWERS
Section 3.1 Purposes. The corporation is organized and shall be operated exclusively for charitable, scientific and educational purposes within the meaning of section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Subject to the foregoing, the specific purposes and objectives of the corporation shall include but not be limited to the following:
To preserve and protect the natural, environmental and historic values and elements in and around the general area of Colorado that includes the historic hot springs at Valley View and the historic Orient Mine.
To preserve and protect the substantial Mexican free-tail bat population within the Orient Mine, and to support and encourage scientific research and public education with respect to the entire natural environmental attributes of the property.
To preserve, protect and operate the historic natural hot springs at Valley View as a naturist facility for the education and enjoyment of the general public, with minimal development and at minimal charge.
To work with local, county, state and federal agencies and other nonprofit organizations to protect and preserve the unique geological and geothermal elements and important wildlife habitat in the area.
Section 3.2 Powers. In furtherance of the foregoing purposes and objectives (but not otherwise) and subject to the restrictions set forth in Section 3.3, the corporation shall have and may exercise all of the powers now or hereafter conferred upon nonprofit corporations organized under the laws of Colorado and may do everything necessary or convenient for the accomplishment of any of the corporate purposes, either alone or in connection with other organizations, entities or individuals, and either as principal or agent, subject to such limitations as are or may be prescribed by law.
Section 3.3 Restrictions On Powers.
No part of the net earnings of the corporation shall inure to the benefit of or be distributable to any director or officer of the corporation or any other individual (except that reasonable compensation may be paid for services rendered to or for the benefit of the corporation affecting one or more of its purposes), and no director or officer of the corporation or any other individual shall be entitled to share in any distribution of any of the corporate assets on dissolution of the corporation or otherwise.
No substantial part of the activities of the corporation shall consist of carrying on propaganda or otherwise attempting to influence legislation. However, if the corporation is an organization to which section 501(h) of the Internal Revenue Code applies and the corporation has effectively elected to have such section apply, the corporation shall have power to carry on the activities permitted by such section, but only to the extent such activities shall not result in the denial of exemption under such section. The corporation shall not participate or intervene in (including the publishing or distribution of statements) any political campaign on behalf of or in opposition to any candidate for public office.
Upon dissolution of the corporation, all of the corporation's assets remaining after payment of or provision for all of its liabilities shall be paid over or transferred to and among one or more exempt organizations described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, contributions to which are deductible under section 170(c)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code. The organizations to receive such property, and their respective shares and interests, shall be determined by the board of directors.
No discrimination shall exist toward any person, employee, member or guest in any program, activity or facility of the corporation on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, age or national or ethnic origin.
Notwithstanding any other provision of these articles of incorporation, the corporation shall not carry on any activities not permitted to be carried on by a corporation exempt from federal income tax as an organization described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, or by a corporation, contributions to which are deductible under section 170(c)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code, and, during any period of time in which the corporation is a "private foundation" as defined in section 509(a) of the Internal Revenue Code:
The corporation shall not engage in any act of "self-dealing," as defined in section 4941(d) of the Internal Revenue Code, so as to give rise to any liability for the tax imposed by section 4941 of the Internal Revenue Code;
The corporation shall make distributions for each taxable year at such time and in such manner so as not to become subject to the tax imposed by section 4942 of the Internal Revenue Code;
The corporation shall not retain any "excess business holdings," as defined in section 4943(c) of the Internal Revenue Code, so as to give rise to any liability for the tax imposed by section 4943 of the Internal Revenue Code;
The corporation shall not make any investments that would jeopardize the carrying out of any of the exempt purposes of the corporation, within the meaning of section 4944 of the Internal Revenue Code, so as to give rise to any liability for the tax imposed by section 4944 of the Internal Revenue Code; and
The corporation shall not make any "taxable expenditure," as defined in section 4945(d) of the Internal Revenue Code, so as to give rise to any liability for the tax imposed by section 4945 of the Internal Revenue Code.
All references in these articles of incorporation to provisions of the Internal Revenue Code are to the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and to the corresponding provisions of any subsequent federal tax laws.
ARTICLE IV.
OFFICES
The address of the principal office of the corporation is P.O. Box 67, Villa Grove, Colorado, 81155-0067.
ARTICLE V.
MEMBERS
The corporation shall have no voting members. However, the corporation may have such classes of nonvoting members as may from time to time be prescribed by its bylaws or by the board of directors. The designation of each class of members and their respective manner of election or appointment, qualifications, tenure, terms of membership, rights, limitations and obligations shall be as provided from time to time in the bylaws of the corporation or by the board of directors. Members shall have no voting rights or other management powers. The corporation shall have no capital stock. However, the corporation may issue certificates evidencing membership therein.
ARTICLE VI.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Section 6.1 General. The management of the affairs of the corporation shall be vested in a board of directors, except as otherwise provided in the Colorado Revised Nonprofit Corporation Act, these articles of incorporation or the bylaws of the corporation. The number of directors, their classifications, if any, their terms of office and the manner of their election or appointment shall be as provided from time to time in the bylaws of the corporation.
Section 6.2 Liability of Directors. No director shall be personally liable to the corporation or to its members for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director, except that the foregoing shall not eliminate or limit liability of a director to the corporation or to its members for monetary damages for the following: (a) any breach of the director's duty of loyalty to the corporation or to its members, (b) acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (c) acts specified in C.R.S. Section 7-128-403, as it now exists or hereafter may be amended, or (d) any transaction from which the director directly or indirectly derived an improper personal benefit. If the Colorado Revised Nonprofit Corporation Act hereafter is amended to authorize the further elimination or limitation of the liability of directors, then the liability of a director of the corporation, in addition to the limitation on personal liability provided herein, shall be further eliminated or limited to the fullest extent permitted by the Colorado Revised Nonprofit Corporation Act. Any repeal or modification of this Section 6.2 shall be prospective only and shall not adversely affect any right or protection of a director of the corporation existing at the time of such repeal or modification.
ARTICLE VII.
BYLAWS
The initial bylaws of the corporation shall be as adopted by the board of directors. Except to the extent limited by the Colorado Revised Nonprofit Corporation Act, the board of directors shall have power to alter, amend or repeal the bylaws from time to time in force and adopt new bylaws. The bylaws of the corporation may contain any provisions for the managing and regulating of the affairs of the corporation that are not inconsistent with law or these articles of incorporation, as these articles may from time to time be amended. However, no bylaw shall have the effect of giving any director or officer of the corporation or any other individual any proprietary interest in the corporation's property, whether during the term of the corporation's existence or as an incident to its dissolution.
ARTICLE VIII.
AMENDMENTS
The board of directors shall have the exclusive power and authority at any time and from time to time to amend these articles of incorporation by the vote of a majority of the directors then in office.
EXECUTED this 9th day of June, 2002.
_____________________________
Linda Joseph, Chair of the Board
_____________________________
Sonia Walter, Secretary
Approved April 18, 2009
Except as required by IRS rules, Orient Land Trust and Valley View Hot Springs never have nor ever will share, sell, or rent any information about our donors or visitors unless they indicate otherwise. Donors may choose to have their name and donation acknowledged publicly in our newsletters, plaques, etc. by checking the appropriate box on any donation form.
We ask donors and visitors for a household mailing address, phone number and email address for the purpose of lost and found, reservations, newsletters, memberships and the like. A phone number or an email address is optional when checking in. A household mailing address is required. Visitors to Orient Land Trust may be required to show a driver's license or other identification to verify identity and/or age. License plate information is collected from all motor vehicles as part of the registration process.
Households that have provided a valid email address will receive communication by email whenever possible. Please remember to allow email from to pass through any filters. When email is not successful, postal mail will be used.
A household may choose to not have mail from Orient Land Trust by checking the appropriate box on any donation form or contacting us any time.
Please...
Incorrect addresses (mailing and email) cost time and money to correct. Please let us know about changes to your email or postal address.
Contact Us
Mail: Orient Land Trust, PO Box 65, Villa Grove, CO 81155-0065
Telephone: 719-256-4315 9:00 am to 10:00 pm every day
Email:
Web: www.olt.org
transparency
[link to visitor guidelines]
For clarification, contact ...
Shared bathrooms are located across the parking lot from the cabins, at the swimming pool and Welcome Center. Up the road, the Sunset Lodge includes a private half-bath. Dishes (not provided) can be washed at the Main Bathroom or Pavilion. These private showers and stalls are cleaned daily. All drinking faucets serve clean, natural spring water.
For the education, enjoyment, and well-being of current and future generations, Orient Land Trust:
promotes a positive clothing-optional experience at all properties including Valley View Hot Springs, Orient Mine and Everson Ranch;
preserves the viewshed, including land acquisition;
protects natural, wild, agricultural, and historic resources, in the northern San Luis Valley.