The Thousand Islands Land Trust Reflections VOL. 21 NO. 1 SPRING 2021 PO Box 238 . 135 John Street . Clayton, New York 13624 (315) 686-5345 . www.tilandtrust.org Land Trust Alliance Backs TILT Supports Conservation Efforts within the Frontenac Arch

For over two decades, the open space. This region is home to (A2A) corridor. The narrowest TILT has been focusing on land the wading herons, busy beavers, point of this wildlife highway over- and water preservation in the dabbling ducks and other wildlife laps with TILT’s Crooked Creek Crooked Creek watershed between that we commonly associate with Preserve. Alexandria Bay and Chippewa the St. Lawrence, but it also pro- In an effort to safeguard diver- Bay; one of the Thousand Islands’ vides shelter and food for wider- sity of the critters of the Crooked most ecologically important land- roaming animals such as bobcats Creek Preserve and beyond, TILT scapes. From the miles of scenic and fisher. recently acquired over 500± acres footpaths on the Macsherry Trail, In recent years, the organiza- adjacent to the South Hammond to the rolling grasslands of TILT’s tion has established a new focus on State Forest, establishing the Butterfield Marsh property, the conserving lands along the Fron- foundation for a bridge of protected Crooked Creek Preserve now tenac Arch wildway, also known exceeds 2,100 acres of connected as the Algonquin to Adirondack continued on page 3 Joshua Truman Joins Board of Trustees We welcome Josh Truman to TILT’s Board of Trustees. Josh brings over 14 years of experience in fund- Board of Trustees raising and development and current- Greg McLean, President ly serves as the Regional Advance- Larry Kingsley, Vice President ment Director for Colgate University, Robin Hoffman, Secretary where he is responsible for engaging Mike Phelps, Treasurer a portfolio of Alumni and Parents in Jane Carver, Member at Large eight regions of the United States. Ben Walldroff, Member at Large Todd Atkinson Prior to his current role, Josh Cindy Bower served as the Director of Develop- Jeff Burt ment of the United States Golf As- John Cardamone sociation. He also served as the John Farrell Director of Development, and then as Jane Heffron Josh Truman Dave Lucas the Executive Director of the Friends Art Mack of Bassett Healthcare Network in “I am thrilled and honored to be Molly Macsherry MacWade Cooperstown. Before that, he served joining the Thousand Islands Land Janice McPhail as the Major Gift Officer for Hart- Trust Board. It is inspiring to see the Josh Truman wick College in Oneonta, where he Carol Munro, Trustee Emerita positive impact that TILT is having maintained relationships with over on the Thousand Islands region,” Staff 100 alumni and oversaw a major gifts explains Josh. “I am excited to be a Jake Tibbles, Executive Director budget and event coordination. part of an organization that promotes Spencer Busler, Assistant Director Josh has lifelong ties to the Terra Bach, Director of Develop- the ability for anyone to protect, con- ment and Communications River, and has a family cottage on serve, and enjoy the River.“ Kate Breheny, Carleton where he spends his summer “Josh is a terrific addition to our Membership Coordinator and autumn seasons. Like his Lab- Board,” states Greg McLean, TILT’s Brandon Hollis, rador retriever, one of Josh’s favorite President. “His expertise and love of Stewardship Director passions is putting out decoys each Shannon Walter, Education & the River lend themselves very well to Outreach Coordinator duck season. Josh also enjoys fishing, furthering TILT’s conservation mis- photography, kayaking, and sailing on sion. We very much look forward to the River. working with Josh. “

2 support of this initiative.’ In addition to protecting the 500± acres adjacent to the South Hammond State Forest, this past summer, TILT was able to ac- quire 207 acres adjacent to TILT’s Crooked Creek Preserve. Con- sisting of pristine forest, wetland, grassland and open-water habitats, the lands further expand the protec- tion in the Frontenac Arch wildway. These new conservation lands, which are identified as being cli-

Marten are shy and solitary animals, but their tracks can often be found crossing the Macsherry mate change resilient, were listed Trail on the Crooked Creek Preserve. photo by Erwin and Peggy Bauer on the open market. They include over 2 miles of creek frontage and Land Trust Alliance continued from page 1 over 2 miles of road frontage along lands between the Crooked Creek land conservation as detailed by Route 1, 111, and 37. With support Preserve and the remote forests and the Land Trust Alliance’s Standards from the Conservation Partnership wetlands of the Indian River Lakes and Practices. Program and Great Lakes Restora- region and foothills of the Adiron- “The Crooked Creek and tion Initiative, TILT was able to act dacks. The goal: a fully-connected Indian River Lakes regions are tied quickly to prevent the imminent and protected corridor that will together here,” said Jake Tibbles, risk of habitat fragmentation that serve as a wildlife highway in per- TILT’s Executive Director, stat- would result from these properties petuity. With this landscape-scale ing that there’s currently a band being developed. conservation in place, the ruffed of intact forest spanning these two “We were able to be nimble grouse from Redwood can migrate wildlife strongholds. “We’re work- and embrace this once-in-a-lifetime along the St. Lawrence, the grey ing to protect this area between the land protection opportunity in the fox will have somewhere to safely Thousand Islands and Indian River heart of the Algonquin to Ad- wander their six miles per day, and Lakes to make sure that these natu- irondack corridor,” said Spencer the black bear their ten. ral areas remain permanently wild, Busler, TILT’s Assistant Director. Just before the Holiday Sea- preventing population isolation. “If you are a wildlife enthusiast son, the New York State Depart- We’re letting nature take its course, these natural areas will not disap- ment of Environmental Conser- and we are grateful for the Con- point, from herons to harriers to vation announced that the TILT servation Partnership Program’s turtles to turkeys.” would be awarded funding for land conservation projects within the Frontenac Arch wildway. The grant award will provide TILT approxi- mately $37,000 to assist with due- diligence expenses associated with these land acquisitions. These items include boundary marking, baseline documentation, appraisals, land surveys, geological assessments, and other related expenses associ- ated with TILT’s acquisitions. As an Accredited Land Trust, taking these important steps, ensures that Members of TILT’s Easement and Property Acquisitions Committee had the chance to tour the TILT is abiding by the guidelines ewly acquired Runkles and Wilton Properties in Fall 2020. of legal, ethical and responsible 3 Tributes Great Lakes Restoration Initiative September 25, 2020 - April 16, 2021 In memory of Randy Arnot Funds Watershed Conservation Bowie & Susan Arnot In memory of Shaner Graham Atkinson John G. Foster In memory of Barbara Babowicz Rodney Babowicz In memory of Stan Bach Linda Bach In memory of Nancy K. Breslin Mary Hannah Arnot Jake Tibbles In memory of Wesley Bourcy Keith Aubertine, Hill High Excavation 26 square miles. That’s over 12,500 football fields, or In memory of Aunt Mary Bowman Amy Loya roughly the size of the City of Syracuse, New York. Believe In memory of M. Patricia Campbell it or not, that’s also the size of the Mullet Creek watershed. Drs. John Campbell & Heidi Crow In memory of Macdonald Clark Mullet Creek, foreground, with the St. Lawrence in background and Fishers Landing at right. Judy Clark In memory of Frank Cole Yes, it is that Mullet Creek in conservation; a chance to strategically Karen & Bruce Harrison Fisher’s Landing, that’s only as wide protect the lands that keep our water Jake Tibbles as a school bus is long. Don’t blink and wildlife safe before they become In memory of Walter Corbellini The Mead Family when driving over the Mullet Creek degraded. And now that’s precisely In memory of George & Mary Cox bridge on Route 12; you’ll miss the what TILT’s conservation program George Cox meandering stream entirely! endeavors to do. In memory of Sissy & Bill Danforth With its watershed sprawling into In 2020, TILT was awarded a Dick & Charlotte Brooks the Towns of Clayton, Orleans and Al- grant through the Great Lakes Resto- John & Candace Marsellus exandria, it’s baffling to think that the ration Initiative to kick off the Mullet In memory of Sissy Danforth for the Rivergate Trestle Project rain, snow, ground and surface waters Creek Conservation Initiative. The Donna Dundon & Myrna Carter from this expansive area funnel down federal funding is to be used for the Dana & David Haymes Damon & Susan Kenyon to a single creek channel that a long- conservation of lands adjacent to Mul- Ken & Judy Owen jumper could clear. let Creek, ultimately providing a buffer Josh Truman Remarkably, the Mullet Creek between the creek and its adjoining In memory of Terry Davenport watershed encompasses nearly the upland uses. Amy & Todd Davenport same surface area as the In memory of Ken Deedy Steve & Vici Diehl Crooked Creek and French Dan Dolan Creek watersheds combined! Joe & Millie Savarese And even more astounding is Emmy Sorth Jake Tibbles that 45% of Mullet’s water- In memory of shed remains forested with Dr. Anne K. Del Borgo only about 6% having been Nancy Del Borgo developed. This means that the In memory of Maria Del Carmen Vargas de Lizarazo waters that currently feed the Sandra McMullen St. Lawrence from this small- In memory of the but-mighty tributary remain Dodenhoff Family relatively clean and safe for all Susan & Howard Charbonneau to enjoy. Green Heron live and nest around small bodies of water and continued next page This also presents itself as an opportunity for timely densely vegetated areas along the tributaries of the St. Law- rence River. photo by Bill Munro 4 Tributes - cont. In memory of Ralph Downey Charles & Orinda Heck In memory of Ted Fitter Tom & Robyn Davison Lisa Dunn Betsy Fitter & Roxane Pratten Roxane Pratten Jake Tibbles Roy & Peggy White In memory of Rett Foster Judy Foster & John Glick In memory of Leonard Fratello John & Marlene Beyers In memory of Dick Fulton Michael Fulton In memory of Jamie Gaffney Kathleen Gaffney In memory of Claire Gefell Mullet Creek, foreground, with the St. Lawrence in background and Fishers Landing at right. Henry Nichols In memory of Michael Geiss This spring, TILT launched the initiative with the purchase of the 33-acre Edward & Margaret Blackmer Weisberg property on Route 180 in Omar. With over 18-acres of federally desig- Karen Blum Benjamin & Anne Geiss nated wetlands and several hundred feet of creek frontage, the Weisberg prop- In memory of Marilynn & erty acts as sponge to clean and hold water. The property is primarily in early- Larry Gould successional shrubland, meaning it’s rich with diverse biota from songbirds to Michael & Alison Carter salamanders. In memory of Lyle Green TILT is hopeful that the Weisberg acquisition is the first of many in the Barbara Green Donald Green Mullet Creek region. In memory of John Haley Richard & Kathryn Gamble Great Lakes Restoration In memory of Ed Hall Initiative funding was also Nancy Garnsey In memory of awarded to TILT last autumn Mamie & Charlie Heath for the purchase of two proper- Kristy & Peter Carey ties on the foot of Grindstone In memory of Richard Heck Island. TILT acquired the Charles & Orinda Heck In memory of 13-acre Salisbury property and Matthew D. Heineman the 62-acre Moynihan prop- Bay House Artisans erty in October and December, Chris Brennen Jane Carver & Ron Cooper Salisbury Property respectively. Both properties Bob & Lydia Cassna contain pockets of emergent Tom & Robyn Davison wetlands and majestic hard- Dee Fuller wood forests that are valuable Jereme Holiman Carol Kostik breeding habitats neotropical John Levy migratory songbirds, water- Mary & Ted Mascott fowl and shorebirds alike. Carole McLemore Carol & Dick Munro These acquisitions mean that Katherine Semelserger TILT now conserves over Jake Tibbles 2,500-acres on Grindstone, Marty Yenawine helping preserve the wild and In memory of Patti Hendler Jim Hendler remote character of this unique In memory of Lee Hirschey Delaney Bay Marsh and cherished island. Claire Cox continued next page

5 Tributes - cont. Become a Friend of the In memory of James Hungerford David & Lynda Hungerford Thousand Islands Biological Station! In honor of Judy & Jim Kiernan Did you know Kate Kiernan SUNY ESF has a In memory of Christopher M. Kline field station on Gov- Anne & Chris Kline ernors Island, Clay- In memory of Lily ton, bustling with (best River Dog Ever!) Robin Lane activity dedicated to In honor of Arthur Mack & enhancing the Riv- Mary Jo Champion er’s fisheries? It’s Leslie Cobb called the Thousand Tracie Tucci Islands Biological In honor of Molly & Darden MacWade Station (TIBS) and TIBS Director Dr. John Farrell and post-doctoral fellow Dr. John Paul Leblanc Stewart Macsherry & Beth Rumble is an important part show local students about fish that live in the River as part of an outreach Jake Tibbles of the River com- program in the wet lab. In memory of Herb & Rosemary Mossien munity with its long-term research, provide a one-of-a-kind experience to Carol & Dan Mossien management, restoration, and educa- local youngsters, who learn what it is In memory of John Murray tion programs. like to be fish scientist. Jean Murray TILT and TIBS have a long- We are excited to share with our In memory of Donald & Joan Nickason standing partnership. Each year, TILT readers that the Thousand Islands Constance Peters and TIBS team up to deliver a suite Biological Station has announced the In memory of EP of wetland restoration and monitoring launch of a new outreach program, Angela & Rick Corcimiglia projects, along with environmental “Friends of TIBS,” to better connect to Lori Pacific Linda Bach education programming. Most recent- the River community through regular In memory of Joan Perconti ly, TILT worked with TIBS and Ducks communication about its science and Michael Cooke Unlimited to restore the Blind Bay the environmental problems TIBS and In memory of Clarence Petty Wetlands Complex, supporting our its conservation partners are working to Peter O’Shea local fisheries, waterfowl and a vari- solve. In memory of David Quarrier ety of other species. In the future, we Learn more about how to become Sidney Manes Sid Quarrier & Eliza Bailey hope to bring back one of our favorite a Friend of TIBS and get access to our Richard & Elizabeth Wright KidsTreks, Ichthyologist For A Day. first online newsletter:https://www.esf. In memory of Betsy Ravenel For this KidsTrek, TILT and TIBS edu/tibs/support-tibs.htm Mary Hannah Arnot In memory of Karen Inglese Rice Lois & Sam Giamber In memory of Walter, Louise & Jane Ann Rice Drink a Toast! Florence Lewis Rice & Leroy Lewis TILT has partnered with In memory of Mary Ellen Rogers Coyote Moon Vineyards to James Barden establish a model vineyard at In memory of Madolyn & Leonard Root Zenda Farms Preserve and to Philip & Roxanne Pratt produce two “Zenda Farms” wines In memory of that directly benefit programming Frances & Peter Rossmassler William & Wendy Rossmassler and expansion at the Preserve. In honor of Joan & This partnership is emblem- in memory of Fred Rueckert atic of Zenda’s commitment to Bill & Fleur Rueckert showcase responsible agricultural continued next page practices and land stewardship.

6 Happy Adventuring, Alaina! Tributes - cont. In memory of Gary & Vera Rushmer Elizabeth Tolla In memory of Patricia Schwarz Ken Schwarz & Linda Watson In honor of Jim Scott Meredith Scott In honor of Harry Slate Camilla Smith & Martin Kenner In memory of David K. Smith Sue Smith In memory of Riggs Smith Nan Smith In memory of Emmy Sorth Sigrid Campbell Cerow Agency Tracey Childers Frank & Kathi Downie Rick & Janet Gregware The Mead Family Phyllis Schwartz Jake Tibbles TILT Staff (l.-r.): Brandon Hollis, Shannon Walter, Jake Tibbles, Kate Breheny, Spencer Busler, Terra Bach Joan & Skip Tolette In memory of Stephen Storie It was at the end of April that to the St. Lawrence River. Wayne & Lana Storie In memory of Williams Streets we said our final goodbyes and fare- Now in 2021 she’s on to her next Marilyn Kime wells to our dear friend and colleague, grand adventure with her fiancé Aaron In memory of Lois Swick Alaina Young. For the past three years and Corgi puppy Frankie at her side, Laurie & Dave Fontaine Alaina held the position of Education this time reorienting her compass due In memory of & Outreach Coordinator at the Land west, way west, to Seattle! And we Don & Phoebe Tritton Bob & Brooke Runo Trust. have no doubt that Alaina will discover In honor of Josh Truman In 2018, Alaina first set her com- new friends amongst the tidepools, es- Robin Lane pass due north and we couldn’t have tuaries, mountain tops and rainforests In memory of Lisa Van Zandt been happier. It was her enthusiasm of the Puget Sound. Tom Isaia Lori & Dean Neumann for adventure, her positive attitude and So, goodbye for now, Alaina. Marjory Ball Williams curiosity for learning that guided her While we are losing a wonderful mem- In memory of Aaron Vogel ber of our team, each Charlann Tranella and every one of us In memory of Francis & Shirley Wagner has gained an incred- for the Rivergate Trail Project ible friend and advo- Jane Wagner & Richard Lasky cate for land conserva- Mabel Walker tion. Rande Richardson Jake Tibbles We wish you the In memory of Ted Weisberg best in this next excit- James & Jacqualine Costello ing chapter. In honor of Susie Wood Mark & Louise Scarlett Fondly, Jake, Spencer, Terra, Brandon, Kate & Shannon

TILT Staff in 2019

7 Restoring Blind Bay A Project for our Local Fisheries & Wildlife This past winter, Ducks ecosystem in St. Lawrence County ESF) Thousand Islands Biological Unlimited, the Chippewa Point and designated by the state as a Station (TIBS), Governors Island. Road Association and Thousand significant coastal fish and wildlife “Like many coastal marshes along Islands Land Trust (TILT) part- habitat. In addition to being known the St. Lawrence River, Blind Bay nered to deliver another wetland for its highly productive fisheries, has been dominated by an invasive restoration project along the St. Chippewa Bay is used by high con- hybrid cattail, which exists as a Lawrence River. The restoration centrations of waterfowl, including dense monotypic stand, obstruct- efforts in the Blind Bay Wetlands mallard, blue-winged teal, Ameri- ing natural water flow, crowding mirrors the work TILT has com- can black duck, gadwall, redhead, out native vegetation species and pleted in partnership with U.S. Fish scaup and canvasback for feeding providing poor habitat conditions & Wildlife Service on the Barnett and resting during spring and fall for native fish and wildlife.” Marsh Property, Wellesley Island migrations. Ed Farley, New York Regional and the Crooked Creek Preserve, “Human disturbance, includ- Biologist for Ducks Unlimited Goose Bay. The project was funded ing construction of the Chippewa stated “These cattails form thick by a federal grant, North American Point causeway, coupled with mats that provide little benefit to Wetland Conservation Act Grant, system-wide hydrologic regula- wetland-dependent wildlife. In an and matching funds from over 20 tion has dramatically altered the effort to restore fish spawning and local partners. vegetation composition, open water waterfowl nesting habitat, restora- The Blind Bay Wetlands and water flow throughout the tion crews are excavating channels Complex is a coastal marsh, con- wetlands,” explained John Farrell, and pools in the dense cattail mats. necting Blind Bay and Sand Bay at Director of the State University of DU has implemented this type of the northern tip of Chippewa Bay; New York College of Environmen- work throughout the Lake Ontario- the largest coastal shallow water tal Science and Forestry (SUNY- St. Lawrence River coastline, and

The newly excavated channels and potholes improve the ecology and hydrology of the coastal wetland.

8 projects, over 390,000 fish of 44 native species were produced in- cluding over 5,000 young northern pike in habitats that did not previ- ously exist.” Pre- and post-restora- tion monitoring will be conducted by scientists at TIBS. The Blind Bay Wetland Resto- ration Project and others carried out in the Thousand Islands have been identified through the Fish Habitat Conservation Strategy, a partner- ship developed by SUNY ESF and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to enhance fish populations. Contrib- uting partners include New York State Department of Environmen- The causeway across the marsh prevented the historic water flow through the marsh, and al- tal Conservation, USDA-Natural lowed cattails to fill in. Resource Conservation Service, after restoration we observe posi- emergent vegetation is preferred by Ducks Unlimited and TILT. tive responses from a diversity of many wetland birds and required wetland birds, fish, and plants, as for brood rearing and foraging well as, new access for fishing, habitat. These methods have been birding and kayaking.” successfully implemented else- The restoration work en- where on the St. Lawrence River, hanced over 25 acres of emergent including French Creek, Point Viv- marsh. The work included a series ian, Cranberry Creek Goose Bay of excavated, interconnected and Chippewa Creek. Preliminary Culverts were installed under the causeway. potholes and channels in the dense results indicate improved ecologi- cattail mat and culvert replace- cal conditions that promote native “The Blind Bay Wetlands ment to restore water flow. Open fish reproduction. Farrell states, Restoration Project is yet another water interspersed throughout the “based on samples from similar example of TILT and its conserva- tion partners working with private landowners and community and government leaders to conserve wildlife, water and air quality, and the region’s important en- vironmental features,” said Jake Tibbles, TILT’s Executive Director. “TILT and its partners endeavor to strengthen private and public inter- ests in land as a means to enhance the quality of life and to stimulate human appreciation, scientific re- search and education regarding the importance of natural ecosystems and environmental sustainability.”

Invasive hybrid cattails overwhelmed the marshes between Sand Bay and Blind Bay.

9 TILT Awarded Conservation Partnership Funding for McCarn Creek Trestle Bridge Renovations

McCarn Creek meanders under the historic trestle bridge eventually feeding the St. Lawrence in nearby French Creek.

The years of abandonment are onward with wet feet! (NYSCPP) seeking funding for all-too obvious. Decaying timbers, After a half-century of sitting trestle bridge renovations. The ap- moss-covered concrete and rusty idle, TILT endeavors to bring func- plication was submitted in Decem- fasteners show the antiquity of the tionality and safety back to this ber of 2019. The New York State McCarn Creek trestle bridge in the impressive structure by creating Conservation Partnership Program Town of Clayton. Currently fenced an interconnected rail-trail leading is an innovative public-private off to the public, the 160-foot-long from the Clayton Riverwalk to the partnership between the New York and 60-foot high railroad bridge on bucolic grasslands of Lafargeville. State Department of Environmen- the Thousand Islands Land Trust’s Known to many within the com- tal Conservation (DEC) and the S. Gerald Ingerson Preserve (part munity, the trestle bridge is the Land Trust Alliance’s New York of the Sissy Danforth Rivergate keystone and premier attraction of Program. The program offers Trail) is unfit for crossing due to its this section of the Rivergate rail- competitive matching grants to waning condition. Though sturdy trail. In fact, TILT has initiated qualified New York land trusts to at the foundation, the bridge’s a community-based fundraising advance land conservation, eco- wooden components haven’t held campaign to see these renovations nomic development, farmland pro- up to the test of time. This means to completion. tection, community conservation that outdoor recreationalists must Recognizing the recreational and recreation and tourism. walk under the bridge to cross the importance of this historic struc- TILT’s application was a McCarn Creek in order to traverse ture, TILT submitted a grant success! Announced just before the Rivergate Trail between La- application to the New York State the Holiday Season, TILT has fargeville and Clayton, carrying Conservation Partnership Program been awarded $50,000 from the 10 NYSCPP for the proposed trestle bridge upgrades. These upgrades are to include new girder bearings, wood support beams, decking and safety rails. “We’re incredibly fortunate to operate in a state that recognizes the real values that land trusts, public open spaces, and outdoor recreational opportunities offer to our communities. The Conservation Partner- ship Program’s funding toward the McCarn Creek trestle bridge is a prime example of this recognition,” said Spencer Busler, assistant director for TILT. “The COVID pandemic has made us all aware of just how important outdoor recreation is. We couldn’t be hap- pier that the Conservation Partnership Program has decided to assist with this project.” Though the grant application was successful, the NYSCPP funding will only cover about a third of the total renovation costs. TILT is still seeking finan- cial commitments to help with the bridge and trail renovations, with a goal of reaching the fundraising finish-line by June 2021 in order for construction to be completed by the end of summer. “We’ve had a tremendously positive response from the Thousand Islands community, but we still have a funding shortage and we need your help!” said project proponent and Clayton community member, Looking up from McCarn Creek at the trestle bridge Dan Throop. “Please consider contributing so that our children and our children’s children have this incred- ible amenity to enjoy.” In addition to funds being raised for the renovation of the trestle bridge, a portion of the fundraising goal is dedicated to the long- term maintenance and stewardship of the trail system. Assisting with this effort, the Northern New York Community Foundation has gener- ously committed a $100,000 matching grant to establish an endowment, ensuring the perpetu- al stewardship of the trail and trestle. “The Community Foundation is excited to be working with TILT and the Clayton com- munity to ensure the future for the Rivergate Trail and to help improve the region that we all care so much about,” explained Max Del- Signore, NNYCF Assistant Director. To learn more about the project or about ways in which you can help, contact Terra Bach, TILT’s Development and Communica- tions Director, at 315-686-5345 or tbach@ tilandtrust.org.

Photo by Anne Fernald 11 Sissy Danforth Rivergate Trail Community Connection Project

Together, we can meet ambi- tious goals to restore a piece Thank you to our Community Supporters! of our region’s heritage, the historic railroad trestle bridge. Help us meet our Northern New Dan and Lauran Throop Janice and Dan McPhail York Community Foundation Northern New York Community Peter and Liz Remington (NNYCF) matching challenge! Foundation Elaine Tack Thanks to our wonderful com- Larry and Diane Kingsley Jake Tibbles and Alicia Dewey munity, we have $47,778 left Benjamin and Anne Geiss Ken and Judy Owen to meet our $100,000 matching Land Trust Alliance John and Kim Farrell challenge goal! NYS Parks, Recreation & Historic Doug and Dianne Rogers Preservation Twin Trees Foundation TOGETHER Eric and Judy Mower Jane Wagner and Richard Lasky WE CAN REACH Jeff Burt Kevin and Jane Heffron Robin and David Lucas Damon and Susan Kenyon OUR COMMUNITY Jim and Peggy Pontious Terra and Freddy Bach GOAL TODAY! Sandy Geiss Edward and Margaret Blackmer MaryLou Lechler Karen Blum Art Mack and Mary Jo Champion Jane Carver and Ron Cooper $610,000 Greg and Cindy McLean Rick and Janet Gregware $600,000 Cyril & Dr. Marlene Hajal Mouaikel Fred and Linda Jackson Mike and Amy Phelps Donna Dundon and Myrna Carter $550,000 Trey and Barbara Vars Josh Truman $500,000 $518,021

Tom Walker The Atkinson Family $450,000 Chet and Ann Massari Mark and Connie Holberg Justin and Deb Taylor Matt and Cindy Sherrill $400,000 John Tucker Marsha Spiridigliozzi $350,000 Gaffney Foundation Spencer and Laice Busler $300,000 Molly and Darden MacWade Dana and David Haymes Bill Cosgrove Jean Kerr and Stewart Dutfield $250,000 Mike and Glady Fitzsimmons Kathy Sommer $200,000 Judy Foster and John Glick $150,000 View from Sissy Danforth Rivergate Trail Clayton, NY Photo by Sarah Elllen Smith $100,000

To find out how you Help to Cross the Trestle Bridge! can contribute, please contact Terra Bach “We’ve had a tremendously positive response from the Thousand Islands at 315-686-5345 or community, but we still have a funding shortage and we need your help!” - Dan Throop; project ambassador and Clayton community member. [email protected] today! THANK YOU.

12 Welcome Shannon! TILT’s New Education & Outreach Coordinator Maryland and a Master’s of Educa- tent development. tion from Purdue University. With Outside of work, Shannon a career in education and the enjoys gardening, hiking, kayaking nonprofit sector, Shannon comes and camping. Through her passion to TILT with experience in youth for the outdoors, she quickly fell programming and outreach devel- in love with the Thousand Islands opment. Whether serving on local and Adirondacks. When not on the boards or volunteering, Shannon River paddling her kayak, Shannon is passionate about balancing the enjoys volunteering for the Black growth of the region with sustain- River Chapter of the Adirondack able solutions aimed at protecting Mountain Club as one of the Club’s our beautiful environment and in- trip leaders. spiring a new generation of future From our initial interactions Shannon Walter has been stewards. with Shannon, it was clear that she hired as TILT’s new Education & Originally from Maryland, shared our belief that all educa- Outreach Coordinator. Shannon is Shannon has been in Northern New tional, recreational, and outreach responsible for planning and orga- York for over six years. During experiences are beneficial to our nizing TILTreks & Events, manag- this time, she advanced in several community at large because the ing the Kenneth Deedy Environ- roles at the Watertown Family health and wellness of all River mental Internship Program and YMCA. In addition to building a residents is interconnected with our the Watercraft Inspection Steward strong background in education stewardship of the land. Program, and promoting TILT’s and youth programming, Shannon Please join us in welcoming critical land conservation mission has gained invaluable experience Shannon to the TILT Team! Wel- through marketing and outreach. in grant writing, graphic design, come Shannon! We are absolutely Shannon holds a B.A. in Art social media management and con- thrilled to have you on board! History from the University of #giveNNY 315Day One Voice for 61 Non-Profits Thank you to all who generously donated to the important work accomplished in partnership with this year’s #giveNNY 315Day campaign. With the donors, and within our communities. support of more than 300 individuals, families and TILT celebrated 315Day on March 15, 2021 businesses and a matching grant of $10,000 with 60 other area non-profits by spread- from the Northern New York Community ing kindness and awareness around the Foundation, over $40,000 was raised to tri-county region (Jefferson, Lewis and support this year’s #giveNNY campaign St. Lawrence Counties) Together these and the 61 participating North Coun- non-profits worked in collaboration try non-profits. The Thousand Islands to celebrate this great community and Land Trust was proud to be a part of this raise awareness of the incredible work exciting and community driven campaign. happening among the diverse non profits #give NNY 315Day was a unique event supporting this region. that is part of #giveNNY, the grassroots com- Together over $40,000 was raised thanks munity-based movement spearheaded by the NNYCF to creative and hard work of these non profits and a that has united 61 non-profits throughout Jefferson generous match of $10,000 from the Northern New St. Lawrence and Lewis Counties. It helps highlight York Community Foundation. 13 New Donors Sept. 25, 2020 - April 16, 2021

Amy Alexander David & Sarah Bailey Bay House Artisans John & Marlene Beyers Sigrid Campbell TILT Blog: Bob & Lydia Cassna Roberta Cavallario Carol Cerow Tracey Childers Common Ground Leslie Cobb Glen Colby Maria Cotraccia inding through and love the life of George Cox Mike & Wendy Cuda Wthe woods, the Thousand Islands, Geoff Culkin I looked for a rock from summers hiking, Frank & Kathi Downie marker to let me know kayaking, and doing Stacey Durand The Feier Pleak Family where to turn and find outdoor yoga, to win- Laurie & Dave Fontaine my cottage. I had no ters slipping around on Nancy Garnsey Karen & Ken Green cell phone service, ice and appreciating the Donald Green so this was a mission comforting silence that Charlene Greene & Ron Colin I had to complete filled the once bus- Kathy & Glenn Harris Charlie & Debbie Heinrich on my own. Making tling region. I learned Mark & Connie Holberg plenty of u-turns and quickly to always keep Jereme Holiman repeating the address a shovel in my car, and Bruce & Margaret Howe Barry & Mary Ingalsbe to all of the people I that the best cure for a Richard & Laura Iorio passed on this back- restless mind is a nice Tom Isaia Jacob Johnson roads drive, I finally Alaina Young, Education and Outreach boat ride on the water. William Kauffman came upon my new Coordinator 2018-21 But better than Kate Kiernan home and my first cliff- the natural beauty of Marilyn Kime William Kistner side view of the St. Lawrence River. I this region are the people. Staff, board Carol Kostik let out a breath of relief – I made it. Let members, volunteers, partners, and pro- Ken Kozin my new adventure begin. gram attendees welcomed me with open John Levy Amy Loya As a Jersey native, and after arms, eager to share the wonders of the Emily Malavenda spending a couple of years on the NC Thousand Islands with me. I was inau- Nicholas & Leana Marcezin coast, I knew beach life well. But let gurated as a River Rat, walking across me tell you, River life is a totally differ- the frozen ice in Clayton and baptized ent ballgame. I quickly came to know by my first boat ride around the islands. Before accepting this job, I never could have imagined the opportunities it would afford me. I shared TILT’s mission through articles, social media posts, flyers, and e-blasts. I coordinated stewardship projects on the River, like helping to conserve the Common Tern annually on our shoals, readying the Rivergate Trail with cub scouts, and cleaning up Potters Beach. I had the blessing of working with our cadre of volunteers, who led Treks, organized events, stuffed envelopes,

14 New Donors continued

Adrian & Christine Martin Carole McLemore Robert McNamara Cathy Messenger Steven Mix John & Amanda Mrowka Lori & Dean Neumann Michele Nunziata James & Kathy Nyce Alaina at A Day on the Farm KidsTrek Alaina presents Mutt Strut proceeds to SPCA James O’Connor Court Rutherford took photos, and planted trees. I was the strong cohort of nonprofits in the Frank Sapere able to teach kids about invasive spe- region, banding together to share our Brogan Shoeneman cies and migration through day camps mission and build programs that en- Steven & Marilyn Schroeder Katherine Semelserger and outreach events. I launched our in- compass the spirit of community in the Larry & Diane Shephard augural Watercraft Inspection Steward- Thousand Islands. Nonna Shtipelman & Doug Potter ship Program, where I had the pleasure While my job required me to Anne Sibley of working with our partners at SLELO teach program attendees about the Daniel Smith PRISM to expand our education and work TILT does to conserve this Jennifer Uustal Marie Vayo-Greenbaum initiative beyond our service area to region, they all taught me so much in John & Kathleen Walker protect water quality throughout the turn about what it means to truly live Edward & Mary Ellen Wallace Bruce & Reggie Watkins entire region. in the Thousand Islands. The rich his- Marjory Ball Williams I planned fundraisers and worked tory, family legacies, and all aspects of Lloyd & Melissa Withers with the local businesses that make this River life. I hope that people learned Kevin & Emily Wood Bruce Woolverton & small community so lively and strong. I something from me, but in reality I Thomas Jewell was lucky enough to coordinate one of think I learned far, far more. Marilyn Yeager our annual Zenda Community Picnics, And most of all, I was able to seeing kids’ freshly painted faces light spend every day working with the up as they rode a horse and the smiles incredible team at TILT, with an office of people reacquainting with their River view of the beautiful River I was so Be a friends and loved ones at the start of a lucky to help conserve. I look forward busy summer. With lecture series, girl to seeing the multitude of new, inspir- scout programs, moonlit kayaks, bird- ing things to come, from projects that Tr a i l ing expeditions, and a host of creative I was honored to take part in and ideas KidsTreks, I had the pleasure of joining that grew from small conversations in the office. blazer! Leaving this job is not some- thing I take lightly, and I do so with a heavy heart and fond memories of my time with TILT. As I move across the country, I will always carry along our shared love of this incredible place. While it is the end of one adventure, it is the beginning of a new one for both myself and TILT. Thank you for giv- Join our new ing this Jersey girl a chance – I hope I made you proud! Monthly Giving Alaina Young Program Education & Outreach Coordinator Information at Alaina at Fall Foliage Trek www.TILandTrust.org 15 TILT’s Signature Preserves A Signature Preserve embodies every element of our mission: TILT works to conserve the natural beauty, diverse wildlife habitats, water quality, and outdoor recreation op- TILT ’S 10 SIGNATURE PRESERVES portunities of the 1000 Islands region, for present and future WWW.TILANDTRUST.ORG /EXPLORE generations.

TILT has 10 Signature Preserves 1. Grindstone Island Preserves (begun in 1985) 2. Fort Haldimand (1986) 3. Rocks & Shoals (Elisha Camp quitclaim 1990) Foster-Blake Woods 4. Wellesley Island Preserve (1995) Preserve** Grindstone Island Preserves 5. Rivergate Trail (1996) & Ingerson Preserve (2011) * 6. Zenda Farms Preserve (1997) 7. Crooked Creek Preserve (1998) 8. Foster-Blake Woods Preserve (2013) 9. Chippewa Preserve (2013) S. Gerald Ingerson 10. Otter Creek Preserve (2015) Preserve & Rivergate Trail Zenda Farms Preserve ** TILT’s 10 Signature Preserves reflect the extraordi- nary diversity of habitat, wildlife and beauty that make the Thousand Islands region so special.TILT’s Signature Preserves and trails are open to the public year-round, dawn to dusk. They provide countless opportunities for Otter Creek Preserve * Chippewa Bay Preserve outdoor recreation, education and inspiration. *

Get outside on one of TILT’s Signature Preserves this season and share your photos with us! Tag TILT and use the hashtag #iamthe1000islands and we will feature Crooked Creek Preserve & our favorite photos on our social media pages. Macsherry Trail Fort Haldimand on * Carleton Island

Download our brand new interactive Signature Rocks and Shoals Wellesley Island Preserve Preserve Rack Card by scanning the QR code with your smartphone camera.

16 2020 TILT Supporters

Conserved in Chippewa Bay TILT’s accomplishments in land conservation and environmental education are made possible by the support of our generous donors. Together, we are conserving the wetlands, water, and wildlife that sustain us. This list represents contributions made between January 1, 2021 and April 16, 2021. We apologize for any errors or omissions and ask that you email corrections to us at [email protected]. Thank you for your generous and continuing support.

Carol & Dick Munro Murray Isle Mark & Kylie Morgia Clayton Friend of the Land Allan Newell Wyanoke Island Morgia Masonry# Clayton NNY Community Foundation Watertown Mr. Cyril Mouaikel & Anonymous NYS DEC Watertown Dr. Marlene Hajal Mouaikel Washington Is. Susan Bockus & Michael Brown Oak Island Mike & Amy Phelps TI Park Doug Munro Bluff Island Jeff Burt Rabbit Island Jim & Peggy Pontious Clayton Jim & Martha O'Donnell Clayton Bill Dakin & Jeanne Richards Oak Point RBC Wealth Management# Watertown Bill & Lynda Ferguson Carleton Island Ducks Unlimited Joan Rueckert Grindstone Island Rich Rossmassler & Julia Purcell Grindstone Is. Leonard C. & Mildred F. Ferguson Foundation Jeremy Smith Wellesley Island Nancy Seeley Oak Point Oak Point Taylored Architecture* Clayton Trey & Barbara Vars Wellesley Island Fields Pond Foundation Inc. Waltham, MA Kristen & Jonathan Taylor Clayton T. Urling Walker Clayton Benjamin & Anne Geiss Clayton Don & Elaine Textor Fairyland Westelcom* Great Lakes Restoration Initiative The Sweetgrass Foundation Canton, NY Kevin & Jane Heffron Wellesley Island Dan & Lauran Throop Clayton Martha Jablonski Dexter, NY John Tucker Cape Vincent Islander Jade Stone Engineering * Watertown Ben & Jada Walldroff Watertown Jim & Judy Kiernan Westminster Park Larry & Diane Kingsley Oak Point Bud & Diane Ames Wellesley Island Land Trust Alliance Mary Hannah Arnot Wellesley Island MaryLou Lechler Clayton Guardian Sue & Troy Ballard Round Island Robin & David Lucas Bluff Island Pamela Barton Grindstone Island Art Mack & Mary Jo Champion Clayton The Atkinson Family Carleton Island Skip Behrhorst & Donna Fisher Picton Island Molly & Darden MacWade Pt. Marguerite Jim & Cindy Bower Clayton Eleanor Bick Wellesley Island Mary & Ted Mascott Clayton Jane Carver & Ron Cooper Clayton Blue Line Engineering, DPC# Watertown Equipment Rentals* Grindstone Island Dan French Mosquito Island John Bober & Lesley Snelling Wellesley Island Dan McCollister & Jackie Sanson Clayton Amy Fuller & David Henderson Big Island Peter & Nancy Britton Grindstone Island Greg & Cindy McLean Wellesley Island Gaffney Foundation Binghamton, NY Jack Butts & Dominique Noel Sunnyside Andrew & Jeanine McNally IV Wellesley Island Ann & George Grobe Lake Ontario Barbara White Butts Hickey Island Eric & Judy Mower Wellesley Island French Bay, Inc.* Clayton John & Sally Cardamone Thousand Island Park Patrick & Lisa Moynihan Grindstone Island LaFave White & McGivern LS, PC# Theresa Judy Clark Grindstone Island Stewart Macsherry & Beth Rumble Dorset, ON Beverly & Rachel Cole Murray Isle ~ Deceased Chet & Ann Massari Windward Cliffs Mike & Eileen Comerford Carleton Island * InKind Donation The Mead Family Grindstone Island William Cosgrove Clayton # Underwriting Donation Alex & Maggie Mehran Lake Ontario Coyote Moon Vineyards Clayton 17 Elizabeth Custis Grindstone Island David & Susan Stilley Grindstone Island Tom & Robyn Davison Grindstone Island Annie & Kent Strobel Morristown Dan Dolan New York Carolyn Rueckert Stouffer Grindstone Island Ted & Kathy Drum Grindstone Island Lois Swick~ New Hampshire John & Kathleen Eisenhauer Alexandria Bay Judy Sweet Chippewa Bay Kathy Elliott Wellesley Island Ann Sweeten & Randy Yoder Clayton John & Kim Farrell Clayton Elaine Tack Clayton Mike & Glady Fitzsimmons Alexandria Bay David & Shirley Taylor Grindstone Island Joan Flint Grindstone Island The Delaney Bay Fund Grindstone Island Laurie & Dave Fontaine Bedford, NH Joan & Skip Tolette Grindstone Island Judy Foster & John Glick Clayton James & Charlene Tyler Wellesley Island Patrick & Mary Fowles Pine Tree Island Bert & Avis Ulrich Snake-All Island Sandy Geiss Clayton Patti Wood & Jim Schnauber Clayton Michael & Eileen George Thousand Island Park Sandra Rennie & Nicholas Yost TI Park Donald Green Clayton Dane & Carol Zabriskie Prince Regent Island Rick & Janet Gregware Grindstone Island Steve & Meg Hart Chippewa Bay Deborah Heineman Picton Island Steward Matt Heineman~ Picton Island Susie Smith & Marceli Wein Sagastaweka Island C.J. & Nicole Strickland Grindstone Island Debby Hirschey Sarasota Angel Rock Waterfront Cottages# Cape Vincent Robin Hoffman Clayton Swan Bay Resort & Marina# Alexandria Bay Aubertine & Currier# Watertown Rick & Tricia Tague Wellesley Island Fred & Linda Jackson Clayton Bach & Co.# Clayton David & Robyn Johnsen Oak Island Ian & Eve Tatlock Grindstone Island Don & Debbie Badour Clayton Bruce & Lynn Taylor Cape Vincent Jacob Johnson Sport Island Laurie Liechty & Bob Bach Wellesley Island Joan Trimble Jordan Boundary Island Justin & Deb Taylor Clayton Barclay Damon# Watertown Thousand Islands Appraisals# Alexandria Bay Bill Kaiser Grindstone Island Sean & Amy Baxter Grenadier Island Tom & Lynn Kassouf Thousand Island Park Josh Truman Carleton Island Louise Birkhead Kring Point Twin Trees Foundation Wellesley Island Dan & Janet Keane Thousand Island Park Mark & Christine Bolus Iroquois Island Scott & Kim Kempton Grenell Island John & Catherine Uhlein Grenadier Island Jim & Cathy Breuer Wellesley Island Jennifer Uustal Bluff Island Dan & Peggy LeKander Fineview David Brown & Helen Kitzmiller Grindstone Is. Suzanne & David Lipman Wellesley Island Jane Wagner & Richard Lasky Latham, NY Susan & Howard Charbonneau Murray Isle Ann Ward Dingman Pt. Nels & Debbie Magnuson Chippewa Bay Clayton Island Tours* Clayton Jim McGarry & Lyn Pohl Oak Point Watertown Savings Bank# Clayton Red Costello* Thousand Island Park Roy & Peggy White Grindstone Island Janice & Dan McPhail Grindstone Island Matt & Susan Deedy Grindstone Island James McQueeny & Mary Amoroso Carleton Is Steve & Vici Diehl Antwerp, NY Diane & Bob Miron Wellesley Island Gale & John D'Luhy Club Island Network For Good Patrick Donegan Alexandria Bay Partner Adam & Lindsay Ockman Grindstone Island Doug Drumm Creations* Indian Point John & Pat Peach Huckleberry Island Betsy Fitter & Roxane Pratten Grindstone Island 1000 Islands River Rat Cheese# Clayton Robert Purcell Grindstone Island Hugh & Zola Fulmer Thousand Island Park Rob Aliasso Henderson Mike & Virginia Ranger Barge Island Leslie Rowland & Fritz Hager Wellesley Island Tiel Arnot & Meredith Johnston Summerland Is. Peter & Liz Remington White Oaks Harriet Heineman Picton Island David & Sarah Bailey Shady Shores Margot Remington Oman & Jim Hendler Navaho Island Earl Bennett & Mary Lyons Watch Island Richard Oman White Oaks Linda Hendley & Family Grenell Island Ron & Merrilee Bertram Hammond On the River Construction* Clayton David & Lynda Hungerford Clayton Gus & Susan Birkhead Kring Point John & Carol Repsher St. Helena Island Marilyn Kime Williamsburg, VA Eric & Gina Bjornlund Oak Island William & Wendy Rossmassler Grindstone Island Janet Lamb-Ennis Grindstone Island Edward & Margaret Blackmer Oak Point Kristan Sammons Ogdensburg Marshall & Patti Linder Island View Condos Karen Blum San Luis Obispo, CA Brogan Shoeneman Clayton Marshall & Sterling Insurance# Clayton Andrew Bott & Christine Sebor Carleton Island Camilla Smith & Martin Kenner Grindstone Is. Teddy & Peggy McNally Wellesley Island Mary Bowman~ Wellesley Island Sue Smith Grindstone Island Laura & Linda McTaht Maple Island Jennifer Caddick Linda Island Emmy Sorth~ Clayton Mercer General Contracting Alexandria Bay Deb Caddick Linda Island Zell Steever & Liz Raisbeck Grindstone Island Sarah Miller Schooner Island Bob Carnegie Grindstone Island Daniel & Lynn Miller Cape Vincent William & Jen Cavanaugh Waddington, NY Fred Morey Grindstone Island Peter & Catrine Charron Fairyland Island Jim & Cindy Morris Indian Point John & Libby Chisholm Carleton Island Beth & John Munro Murray Isle Dave & Janet Christman Chippewa Bay Lee Murray & Phyllis Johnson Dan & Jennifer Churchill Grindstone Island Ogdensburg/ Point Vivian Ron & Patricia Cocquyt Carleton Island James & Kathy Nyce Clayton Mary Ann & Timothy Colbert Iroquois Island Bob & Lori Oster Summerland/Dingman Point Caryn Contino Grindstone Island Ken & Judy Owen Piqua, OH Phil & Beth Cooper Pine Island Brandi & Daric Palmer* Clayton Tony & Stephanie Costantino Clayton Chris & Nickie Phinney Clayton George Cox Bethesda, MD Price Chopper's Golub Foundation# Schenectady Margaret & Al Crenshaw Thousand Island Park Raf & Barbara Prichard Little Squaw Island Amy & Todd Davenport Grindstone Island Maxine Quigg* Watertown Coit Liles Deer Island Michael & Billie Jo Radecke Murray Isle Joe & Deb DelVecchio Clayton Ridgeview Communications# Clayton Veronica & James Dolan Gloucester, VA Doug & Dianne Rogers Clayton Megan & Matt Dubofsky Wellesley Island Tom & Sarah Rossmassler Grindstone Island Donna Dundon & Myrna Carter Clayton Bill & Fleur Rueckert Grindstone Island Stacey Durand Redwood Stephen & Het Sabo Carleton Island John & Lori Durand Alexandria Bay Gil Schmidt & Mary Clark Clayton Eagle Shoppe* Clayton Dennis & Michele Sheridan Marcy, NY M. Elaine Engel St. Lawrence Restoration Luise & Tom Farrell Murray Isle 18 Bill & Barbara Feikert Washington Island Bill & Pat Childs Bridgeview Island Marion Fluchere & Richard Schreiber TI Park Agnes Chrietzberg Alexandria Bay Jeremy Foltz & Erin McBride Grindstone Island Chris Murray Photography Clayton Stephen & Nancy Friot Tremont Island William & Kim Conner Clayton Rick & Helen Fuhrman Theresa Michael Cooke Rochester Michael Fulton Imperial Beach, CA John Cooper Governor's Island Paul & Sandy Garrett Wellesley Island James & Jacqualine Costello Alexandria Bay Robert & Constance Gault Clayton James & Vera Costello Thousand Island Park Ari Geselowitz & Bettina Welz Carleton Island Tom & Lee Coughlin Grindstone Island Lois & Sam Giamber Carleton Island Cory Crabill Severna Park, MD David & Elizabeth Goodfellow Montreal Kathy & Dewain Cross Iroquois Island Bob Gray & Rebecca Keese Brush Island Cross Island Farms Wellesley Island Kevin & Marlene Hale Ivy Lea Andrew Dahl Brooklyn Jan & Bob Hampton Clayton Robert Daly Shady Shores Todd Harder & Kristina Hart Indian Point Jim & Edith Davison Grindstone Island Kathy & Glenn Harris Wellesley Island Andrew & Stephanie Davison Grindstone Island Karen & Bruce Harrison Murray Isle Beverly Davison Grindstone Island Dana & David Haymes Roc au Baie Marcy & Chris Dembs Hill Island Tom Heineman & Kyoko Tsuchiya Picton Island Leigh & Chris Dillenback Clayton Hill High Excavation# Clayton Verna Docteur Chaumont Doug & Anne Holbrook Clayton Sally Dodge & Dale Guldbrandsen Wild Goose Is. Jereme Holiman New York John & Barbara Dulas Murray Isle Manny & Victoria Jerome Fineview Ron & Beth Watson Tennis Island Edith Dundon Grindstone Island Myrna Kaplan Rockville Centre Bruce Woolverton & Thomas Jewell TI Park Lisa Dunn Grindstone Island Damon & Susan Kenyon Clayton Craig & Patty Esford Cape Vincent Bill & Johanna Kernan Carleton Island James Estes Dingman Point Meg Kerr & Bob Vanderslice TI Park Nancy Eustance Fineview Kate Kiernan Westminster Park Contributor Neale & Mary Farrell Cape Vincent Mike & Jean Kimber Grenell Island Jeff & Kathryn Feather Cedar Island Erwin & Michele Kost Wellesley Island Scott & Rowena Adamowski Dingman Point Andrew & Holly Kane Thousand Island Park Tom & Lonnie LaRochelle Clayton Sharon Adams Gambrills, MD The Feier Pleak Family Crested Butte, CO Dave & Uli Larrabee Rodman Gary & Linda Albertson Clayton Jeff Ficano Picton Island Herb & Elaine Listemann Clayton Bruce & Genie Anderson Palm Harbor, FL Stu & Liz Finer Clinton, NY Eric & Julie Lueck Iroquois Island Sylvia Anderson-Shoultes Grindstone Island Daniel Fisk Chippewa Bay Paul & Roberta MacLean Rock Ledge Bowie & Susan Arnot Summerland Island David Fisk Chippewa Bay Emily Malavenda Clayton Rachel Arnot Rockwell Summerland Island John G. Foster Holland, MI Nicholas & Leana Marcezin Lake of the Isles Don & Caroline Babcock Clayton Don & Lynn Fredericks Wellesley Island Richard Margolis & Sherry Phillips TI Park Terra & Freddy Bach Clayton Anne & Randall Frick Blackstone Bay John & Candace Marsellus Fayetteville, NY Deborah Bailey Chippewa Bay Dee Fuller Clayton Adrian & Christine Martin Carleton Island Steven and Kelly Baker Fairfield, CT Kathleen Gaffney Bartlett Point Lloyd & Carolyn Martin Jamesville, NY Dennis & Sarah Baldwin Clayton Richard & Kathryn Gamble Wellesley Island Dennis & Janet McGraw Syracuse James Barden Limestone, ME Garnsey General Construction Grindstone Island Shauneen McNally & James Clyne Jamison & James Barry Wellesley Island Joe & Phyllis Gaska Dillon Point George Mesires Alexandria Bay Gretchen & Bill Bartosch Cape Vincent Jay & Vicky Gilbert Murray Isle Fred & Anne Mosher Maple Island Bay House Artisans Alexandria Bay Gary Gilmore Liverpool, NY Carol & Dan Mossien Woronoco Is BCA Architects & Engineers* Watertown Larry & Jo Ann Golden Wellesley Island Gary & Karen Muisus Clayton Lee Bentz & Mike Brandemuehl Rainbow Shores Hunter & Betty Grant Rockport

Bill Munn & Elizabeth Chapman Indian Point John Benvenuto & Ellen Fleischmann Betty Grater St. Margarette's Island Cape Vincent Bill & Judy Munro Murray Isle William J. Gray Brush Island Alice & Robin Berkeley Wild Goose Island Dave & Caroline Munro Murray Isle Barbara Green Sand Bay Jon Binhammer & Linda Garrett Grindstone Is. Jean Murray Syracuse Dick & Erin Greene Thousand Island Park Richard Birkhead Kring Point Rudy & Carol Napodano Clayton Eric & Sarah Gregware Clayton Willie Blassingame Clayton Kate Newell Bluff Point Bob & Kathleen Grose Cape Vincent Don & Linda Blauvelt Thousand Island Park Art & Judy Pearson Cape Vincent Peter & Lynn Gustafson Manzanita Island Seb & Bonnie Borrello Fishers Landing Don & Pat Pickworth Grindstone Island Pete & Cathy Haake Grindstone Island Mark Boss Grindstone Island Mark & Donna Quallen Clayton Robert & Carole Hagemeister Grindstone Island Allen & Claire Boyd Indian Point Bruce Rapp Manlius, NY Bronson Hager & Shane Mitchell Wellesley Is. Nancy Boynton Watertown Peter Rendall & Pamela Adelman St. Helena Is. Mary & Del Hamilton Chippewa Bay Harry & Peggy Bracken Sackets Harbor Nick & Alice Reynolds Alexandria Bay Mary Havranek Arcadia Park Kate & Brian Breheny Clayton River Wellness Center* Clayton Barton Haxall Club Island Chris Brennen Picton Island River Yoga* Clayton Thermon Hazelton Redwood William Briggs Indian Point Gary & Vera Rushmer Wellesley Island Charles & Orinda Heck Grindstone Island William & Linda Bush Cape Vincent Bud & Marguerite Sanzone Wellesley Island Charlie & Debbie Heinrich Clayton Spencer & Laice Busler Clayton Mark & Louise Scarlett Rossie Tom & Eileen Henion Densmore Bay Meg Caddick Linda Island Jake & Jennifer VanReenen Clayton Thomas & Kathryn Hill Camden, NC Drs. John Campbell & Heidi Crow Buffalo Nan Smith Fishers Landing Mark & Connie Holberg Watertown Sigrid Campbell Georgetown, TX Paul Stanuch Osseo, MN Lauren Holleran & Katie Salter Grindstone Is. Mark & Lucille Canter Newton, NJ Stewart Signs & Apparel, LLC* Cape Vincent Demer Holleran Niagara Island Tom & Irene Carman Wellesley Island Carter & Nan Strickland Grindstone Island Romer & Deming Holleran Niagara Island John & Kathy Carnegie Grindstone Island Donald & Linda Taylor Grindstone Island Bruce & Margaret Howe Mendon, MA John & Judy Carter Wellesley Island The Golden Cleat* Clayton John Nuber & Margaret Hummel Clayton Alison Cassidy Grindstone Island Thousand Islands Sun# Alexandria Bay Thom & Melinda Inglehart Wellesley Island Bob & Lydia Cassna Pittsburgh, PA Jake Tibbles & Alicia Dewey* LaFargeville, NY Richard & Laura Iorio Grenell Island Roberta Cavallario Alexandria Bay Christine Tisa Clayton Tom Isaia Ann Arbor, MI Audie & Laura Cerow Clayton Jamison & Mallory Vincent Clear Lake David & Frances Ivey Clayton Tracey Childers Watertown Garden Center & Peter & Nancy Jackson Belvidere Island Landscape Supply, Inc* Watertown 19 Louis Jekel Alexandria Bay David & Jayne Montrois Clayton Russell & Jennifer Jerome Fineview John & Amanda Mrowka Cape Vincent Phillip & Marion Johnson Thousand Island Park Jessica Murray & Rob Nassau Wellesley Island David & Kathy Johnson Clayton Thomas & Leah Neely Redwood Connie & Bart Kartoz Princeton, NJ Deborah & David Neuroth Clayton Willie & Judy Keeler Indian Point John & Darlene Nielsen Swan Bay James & Cindy Kennedy Wellesley Island Ryan & Rebecca Northington Haverford, PA Carrie Kerr & Dick Warner Thousand Island Park Peter & Gloria O'Brien Chippewa Bay Al Kettell & Nicole Sarett Round Island James O'Connor Bronx, NY Doris King Carleton Island Jim & Jane O'Neill Chippewa Bay John & Sandy Kinsella Wellesley Island Dave & Linda Palmer Indian Point William Kistner Westminster Park Michael Parkes Thousand Island Park Sharon Klingenberger Clayton Penny Partlow Thousand Island Park Paul & Gayley Knight Sarasota Michael & Patti Peck Cape Vincent Kerry & Joe Koen Fineview LoLita Pfeiffer Grindstone Island Michael Kost Kirkwood, NY Peter & Laurie Pike Cape Vincent At Otter Creek Carol Kostik New York, NY Gary & Lesa Plantz Alexandria Bay Dennis Kuhn Brooktondale, NY Porch & Paddle* Clayton Preserve Mike & Sandy LaDue Cape Vincent Philip & Roxanne Pratt Redwood Bob & Maureen Lamb Wellesley Island Windsor & Kay Price Thousand Island Park Susan Timerman Adams, NY Ken & Caroline Larson Grindstone Island Donald G. Price Wellesley Island Elizabeth Tolla Westminster Park Nancy Lawrence Grindstone Island Deena Procopio Brewerton Bob & Dorothy Topping Maple Island Wayne & Beverly LeChase Tennis Island Sid Quarrier & Eliza Bailey Scow Island Charlann Tranella Rochester, NY John Levy Hopkins, MN Tammy & John Quinn Wellesley Island Michael & Paula Trimble Clayton Craig & Ellen Lewis Carleton Island Ro Rabozzi Oak Point Deborah Ullrich Liverpool, NY Fran & Peggy Lisewski Dillon Island Fatima & Everett Rea Grenadier Island Thomas & Mary Vary Cape Vincent David & Heather Lofgren Clinton, NY Reinman's Decorating Center Clayton Merritt Vaughan Princess Charlotte Island Susan Lowe Clayton Margot Rendall & George Gardner St. Helena I John & Kathleen Walker Chippewa Bay Carl & Tammy Lueck Alexandria Bay Doug & Betsy Rendall St. Helena Island Bruce & Reggie Watkins Thousand Island Park Ron & Carol MacDonald Grindstone Island Chris & Joy Rhinebeck Grindstone Island Stephen & Kim White Blackstone Bay David & Rosalind MacLean Rock Ledge Robert & Sheila Rice Deer Head Island Lloyd & Melissa Withers Clayton Rocco & Roberta Mangano Blind Bay Pat Rich Murray Isle Susie Wood & David Duff Owatonna Island Prudence Matthews Fishers Landing River Day Spa* Clayton Sandy Wood Forand & Bernie Forand Owatonna Bill & Carol May Fort Pierce, FL Riverbay Adventure Inn* Chippewa Bay Wood Boat Brewery* Clayton Bill & Jann McBride Neenah, WI Rob Rodormer Wellesley Island Richard & Elizabeth Wright Brush Island Tom & Linda McCausland Clayton Mike Rulison Kingston, ON Ben & Rebecca Wright Brush Island John & Judy McCullough Cuba Island Bob & Brooke Runo Island 57c Arthur & Barbara Yarah Indian Point Gary & Lynn McElfresh Grenell Island Joe & Robin Russell Alexandria Bay Maryann & Paul Young Jackson, NJ Carole McLemore Ridgefield, CT Paul & Barb Sansoucy Oak Point Jeff & Courtney Zoller Clinton, NY Carrie McNally & Rick Maechling Wellesley Is. Evelyn Saphier Hammond Geoff & Marianne Mead Grindstone Island Doug Saunders Washington, DC Jonathan & Jennifer Mead Grindstone Island Joe & Millie Savarese Clayton Family/Individual Frank & Ada Menapace Chippewa Bay Lisa & David Schenker St. Margarette's/Halfway Lane Menkel & Mike Watt Cedarmere Island Brian & Phyllis Schirano Rose Bay 1000 Islands Ready Mix* La Fargeville William Millar & Velda Hammerbacher Carleton Scott & Lucy Schlueter Fabius, NY Stephen Achimore Syracuse Haynes Miller Murray Isle Steven & Marilyn Schroeder Fayetteville, NY Carol Adler Clayton Mil's Motel Clayton Jim Scott & Phyllis Rawlins Round Island Amy Alexander Buffalo Steven Mix Great Bend, NY Tom & Jeanne Sebastian New Hartford, NY David & Janet Amyot Chippewa Bay Karen Monna & Joe Thibodeau TI Park Basil & Rose Seggos Fishers Landing Bud & Beverley Andress Hill Island Susan & Dean Shelato Ogdensburg Rhea Arnot & Helmut Jenkner Wellesley Island Pat & Dory Sheldon Wellesley Island John & Lori Arnot Clayton Larry & Diane Shephard Lake of the Isles Rodney Babowicz Dillon Point Matt & Cindy Sherrill Alexandria Bay Linda Bach Cape Vincent Sarah Ellen Smith Clayton Cathy & Steve Backus Sixberry Lake Ken Smith Swift Water Point, Grindstone Coley & Susan Baker Oak Point Daniel Smith Watertown Bert Barr Wallace Island Jeanne Roy Snow Alexandria Bay Anne Barros Dexter Glenn Snyder Alexandria Bay Eliza Bates Uncle Ad's Island Whitney Snyder Redwood Chuck Baum Grindstone Island Les & Sandra Squire Clayton John & Marlene Beyers Westminster Park Don & Kate Stevenson Wellesley Island Kim & Martin Bigelow Iwo Eden Island Jeff & Sarah Stopper Vanderbilt Island Ron Bildstein Syracuse Jack & Lora Stopper Vanderbilt Island Mead Binhammer Grindstone Island Wayne & Lana Storie Chippewa Bay Sarah Bockus & Wes Martin Three Ledges Louise Strayer Clayton Bonnie Bolus Iroquois Island Robert & Paula Street Bostwick Island Bottom Line Books LaFargeville Debra & Charles Sullivan Cape Vincent Paul Bousquet & Holly Powers Three Ledges Chelsea Sweetapple & Matt McGee Grenell Is. Michael & Sandy Boyden Cape Vincent Rafferty & Adam Taylor Clayton Kelly & Brian Boyer Clayton John Tennity & Teresa Burnap Grindstone Island Ken & Melody Brabant Clayton Cathy Teske Fayetteville, NY Mike & Lynn Bradley Astounder Island Wendy Textor Douglas Island Jim & Beth Brasser Thousand Island Park The Clipper Inn* Clayton Participants in our virtual 2021 Peggy & Terry Brennen Chaumont Thomas Trash Service* Adams, NY Dick & Charlotte Brooks Wellesley Island Arbor Day Celebration Mike & Irene Tibbles Redwood Kate Broudy Indian Point Jerry & Anna Tidd Fishers Landing Janice Brown Black Lake 20 Richard Ferro Clayton Eileen Lynn Philadelphia, PA Diane & Mike Ferrucci Clayton Sue & Jim Mahoney Chaumont Tom & Dorothy Fitzgerald Clayton Fran & John Mallery Grindstone Island Anna & Jim Forbes LaFargeville Sidney Manes Ojibway Island George Forbes Clayton Bonnie & Charles Mark Fineview Scott & Christa Foster Rylstone Island David & Gretchen Starks Martin Lake of Woods Chuck & Arlene Franklin Doylestown, PA Ann Mazur LaFargeville Richard Fratta Thousand Island Park Nancy & George McBride Carthage, NY Don & Christine Fredericks Chippewa Point Mark & Susan McConn Wellesley Island Frontenac Crystal Springs Clayton Ryan & Sarah McKinley Murray Isle Vicky & Jerry Froome Clear Lake Sandra McMullen Clayton Art Gamble Clayton Robert McNamara Cleveland, NY Bud & Ann Garlock Alexandria Bay Larry Meikle Brockville Volunteers install the 2021 Tern Grid Nancy Garnsey Cape Vincent Anne Mellon Clayton Emery Gasparek Chippewa Bay Cathy Messenger Clayton Larry & Judy Brown Clayton Carter & Chandra Goodnough Blind Bay Patrick Metcalf Shippensburg, PA Tom & Pat Brown Cape Vincent Rob & Judy Goodyear Thousand Island Park Charles Millar Carleton Island Janet & Jon Burrows Clayton Peter Gower Kingston, ON Brandt & Lucy Miller Cape Vincent Ben Butler Methuen, MA Karen & Ken Green Manlius, NY James & Sherla Millis Tully, NY Marcia Calabrese Pullman Island Charlene Greene & Ron Colin Clayton Francie Rendall Minder St. Helena Island Tom & Beverly Campany Clayton Martha Grimes Alexandria Bay Bob & Patty Mondore Jamesville, NY Richard Campany Alexandria Bay Kathy Halsey Birch Island Roberta & John Morrison Hammond Kristy & Peter Carey Wellesley Island Alan Handschuh Plessis Bill & Amy Munro Murray Isle Michael & Alison Carter Maple Island Marv Hart & Bari Bryant Clayton Don & Marie Murphy Alexandria Bay Calvin & Pat Carter Washington Island Bob Hedden Wellesley Island Paul & Elaine Nemec Rocky River, OH Connie Cavallario Alexandria Bay Sandy Heerkens Shady Shores John Neuffer Clayton Carman & Mary Lou Cerio Fishers Landing John & Amy Herbert Indian Point Lori & Dean Neumann Clayton Carol Cerow Dexter, NY Joel & TC Hollis Alexandria Bay Holly Nichols Watertown Elaine & Stephan Chase Grossman Point Tom & Barbara Hollister Chippewa Bay Henry Nichols Brunswick, ME Robert & Lila Chatfield Wolcott, NY Emily Holt Grindstone Island David Nickason Indian Point Howard Cheney & Lynn Rancourt Clayton Betty Howe Murray Isle Neil Nicol & Leslie Mitchell Chippewa Bay Barbara Chini & Paul Janavicius Ohio Adam & Katie Hungerford Clayton Maria Nowling Wellesley Island Martha Cline Hammond Pete Hungerford Clayton Michele Nunziata Cape Vincent Leslie Cobb Clayton Hunner's Market* Clayton Elizabeth O'Brian Clayton Glen Colby Ogdensburg William Ilmanen & Ethel Larrabee Linda Island David & Eileen Oliveira Murray Isle John & Melinda Comstock Alexandria Bay Fred & Barbara Inderlied Dingman Point Peter O'Shea Fine, NY Anne & Brian Connors Alexandria Bay Barry & Mary Ingalsbe Chippewa Bay Kerry Palmer Watertown Gregory & Martha Coon Redwood Valentino & Sherry Insalaco Iroquois Island Margaret Parkes Thousand Island Park Angela & Rick Corcimiglia Fremont, IN Bill & Todd Jackson Long Schooner Island Kiera Pergram Alexandria Bay Robert & Tori Cosselman Alexandria Bay Donald & Barbara James Chippewa Bay Constance Peters Penfield, NY Maria Cotraccia Clayton Mary Lou Jeffery Clayton Dan Phillips Chippewa Bay Art & Jeri Couch Grindstone Island Penny Joel Grindstone Island James Picunas Clayton Coughlin Printing* Watertown Remmington Johnson Copenhagen Francoise Piron Redwood Claire Cox Florida John & Susan Johnson Cape Vincent Laurie Pitts Philadelphia, NY Jeff Cox Brownville, NY Pamela & Jim Judson Fishers Landing David Poulin Henderson Harbor, NY Marcia & Donald Crist Chippewa Bay Cheryl & Tom Kaminski Clear Lake Art & Lorna Pundt Cape Vincent Kathryn & Jerry Crosby Burton WA Cathy Karas Wellesley Island Larry & Karin Rappaport Indian Point Lynn Crow Round Island William Kauffman Garnet Valley, PA Walter & Georgina Ratcliffe Ivy Lea Mike & Wendy Cuda Wellesley Island John & Debra Kellogg Murray Isle Carol Reed & Bill Moth Clayton Geoff Culkin Cape Vincent Jonathan & Mary Kendall Thousand Island Park Eugene & Mariana Reinhart Cape Vincent Annemarie & Joseph Dahl Cresskill, NJ Edward & Catherine Kernan Carleton Island Harold & Sue Remington Clayton Patricia & Frank Dahl Helmetta, NJ Jean Kerr & Stewart Dutfield Delmar, NY Bill & Jeanne Reynolds Morristown Rebecca Dahl Middletown, CT Elizabeth Kincaid-Ehlers Stave Island Rande Richardson Watertown Steve Daub Galway, NY Anne & Chris Kline Endwell, NY Bruce & Sandra Rippeteau Cape Vincent Bonnie Davenport Grindstone Island Robert Kling Laurel, MD Camilla & Silos Roberts Watch Island Barbara Deedy Grindstone Island Eric Kling Monrovia, MD Ed & Sandra Rosecrans Liverpool Robb & Nancy Dehm Rabbit Island Karin Kling Bright Phoenix, MD Ross & Karen Rowland Sackets Harbor Lisa Dehm Liverpool, NY Laura Kopczak Saugerties, NY Leon & Dawn Rusho Grindstone Island Nancy Del Borgo Cape Vincent Ken Kozin Clayton Jack & Janet Russell Russell Tract Jane Demer Newark, NY Melanie K. Flack Lisbon, NY Court Rutherford Blossvale, NY Laura Desmond Ogdensburg Tom & Janine LaClair Clayton Helen DeThomas Cape Vincent LaFargeville Agway* LaFargeville Planting the Zenda Community Bud & Barbara Dier Clayton Jerry & Judy Laffer Board Island Garden DiPrinzio's Kitchen* Clayton Betty Lamb Murray Isle Charlie DiSalvo & Kathleen Kennedy Robin Lane Dunwoody, GA Morgantown, WV Larry & Linda Law Chippewa Bay Jim & Donna Donegan Alexandria Bay Russ & Patricia Leach Redwood Kevin & Theresa Donovan Long Island Rich & Monica LeClerc Alexandria Bay David Doubilet & Jen Hayes Clayton Dan Leone Alexandria Bay Frank & Kathi Downie Centre Hall, PA Claire & Larry Leonhardt Alexandria Bay Katie & Lou DuBon Grenell Island Joe & Kathy Leskoske Wellesley Island Jennifer Durr & Family Clayton Ann Levy Cape Vincent Juliana Eames Cape Vincent Giff & Sue Lewis Grandview Park Matthew & Sara Elliott Number Nine Island Florence Lewis Rice & Leroy Lewis Clayton Tim Favry Dexter, NY Eugene & Arlene Long Clayton Tom Favry Dexter, NY Amy Loya Albany, NY 21 Elissa Sampson Ithaca, NY Two Friends on a River Clayton Frank Sapere Clayton Dale & Susan Van Liew Grenell Island Stephen & Lisa Sarfaty Oak Point Marie Vayo-Greenbaum Thousand Island Park Don & Cici Sauda Grenell Island Christie Vliss & Carl Bickford Henderson Harbor Mike & Tammi Scales Johnson City Kim Volz & Vincent Sneary Carleton Island Sepp & Amy Scanlin Sackets Harbor Ronnie & Bob Wadsworth Fishers Landing Tim Schlachter Morristown Assemblyman Mark Walczyk Watertown Eric Schulein West Babylon, NY Patti & Tom Walker Chippewa Bay Phyllis Schwartz Grindstone Island Edward & Mary Ellen Wallace Clayton Jim & Bev Schwartz Clayton Buzz Ward Dingman Point Ken Schwarz & Linda Watson Sackets Harbor Greg Washburn Hammond Meredith Scott Round Island Inez Wehrli Grindstone Island Ron Seeley Crow's Nest Island Tessa Wegert* St. Helena Island Richard & Deena Sehlin Murray Isle Chandler Welton Thousand Island Park Katherine Semelsberger Clayton Jim & Ruth Westbrook Clayton Dan & Julie Shaver Clayton Jonathan & Heather White Thousand Island Park Daniel Sherman Clayton Tom Williams Clayton Nonna Shtipelman & Doug Potter Clayton Marjory Ball Williams Mason City, IA Anne Sibley Alpine, NY Stars & S’mores KidsTrek 2020 Deltra Willis Cape Vincent Jay & Betsy Siegel Lansdowne ON Uta Wister Lake Clear, NY Jerry Smith Millsite Lake Jim Tague & Lori Thistle Chippewa Bay Richard Withington Round Island Dawn & Warren Smith Cape Vincent Robert & Jean Tague Linden Cove Betsy Wolverton Grindstone Island Scott & Janel Smith Fishers Landing Steve & Nellie Taylor Thousand Island Park Chris & Linda Wood Rob Roy Island Kathy Sommer Redwood Pat Taylor Clayton Kevin & Emily Wood Goose Bay Sue St. Louis & Peter Bleau Chippewa Bay Jeremy & Mary Taylor Grindstone Island Beverly Wood Owatonna Island Albert Stickney Grindstone Island Gene & Joan Terenzetti Wellesley Island Marilyn Yeager Clayton Tom & Sue Storino Watertown Michael & Temple Touchette Indian Point Marty Yenawine Clayton Daniel & Lisa Swainbank Swanton, VT Tracie Tucci North Syracuse, NY Carolyn Youngs Clayton Steve & Debz Sweet Grenell Island Jo Anne Tuck Cape Vincent Elizabeth Youngs Clayton Are you ready to become a Trailblazer Member?

Winter... Spring... Summer... Fall...... We all love the Thousand Islands, year-round. Help TILT steward and sustain the waters and lands all year by coming a Trailblazer monthly donor. When you join the community that supports TILT’s work every season of the year, you help sustain our commitment to protect the Thousand Islands you love in perpetuity. Monthly donations provide a consistent, reliable source of support to help sustain TILT’s mission year-round. This small act shows great love. Become a Trailblazer Member and know your monthly donation is the greenest and most cost-ef- fective way to contribute to TILT. Your donation is put to work immediately, you determine the amount of your monthly gift which can be changed or canceled at any time, and an annual giving receipt is provided for tax purposes. Are you ready to become a Trailblazer Member? Visit www.tilandtrust.org/donate to learn more, or connect with Kate Breheny, Membership Coordinator by calling (315) 686-5345 or sending an email to [email protected]. 22 TILT Preserve Photos © Chris Murray Photography. In Memoriam In 2016, the Walker Suspension Bridge at the Ot- Mabel Walker ter Creek Northern Loop or Bridge Trail was dedicated in honor of Mabel and Tom. This unique feature pro- Mabel and her husband vides picturesque views of Lynch Creek. Without their T. Urling (Tom) Walker support and generosity, this project would not have became members of TILT in been possible. In addition, Mabel and Tom generously 2008. As well-known North supported the many outdoor educational activities Country philanthropists, they hosted at Zenda Farms Preserve. played an integral role in the Mabel’s immeasurable dedication to our beloved development of TILT’s Otter Northern New York communities and Thousand Is- Creek Nature Trail in Alex- lands region will be forever celebrated. The TILT Staff andria Bay. Walking distance and Board extends their sincerest sympathy to the from Alexandria Bay Cen- Walker Family. tral School and the center of Mabel Walker at the Sum- Donations in Mabel’s memory may be made to mer Gathering the Village, the Otter Creek the Hospice of Jefferson County, 1398 Gotham St, Nature Trail has become a Watertown, NY 13601, or to the Walker Family Com- favorite for hikers, bird watchers, outdoor enthusiasts, munity Fund at the Northern New York Community and countless parents looking to get their kids out in Foundation, 131 Washington St., Watertown, NY nature. 13601. Mary Emma “Emmy” Kearns Sorth Emmy Sorth had an unconditional love for the and see the Island through Thousand Islands and was a true River Rat. She their eyes.” spent much of her professional career in teaching and TILT has been so speech pathology at the Ridgewood Public Schools. fortunate to have such But outside of the classroom, her interests were pho- passionate supporters tography, gardening, exploring nature and travel. She like Emmy. For over 30 and her husband, Robert, spent 20 years exploring the years, she graced us with southern and western US by RV. After Bob’s death, her love, dedication and Emmy traveled to many parts of the world, but always generosity. And we are Emmy Sorth, and her incomparable her “heart’s home” was the cottage that she and Bob forever grateful. grin,during the Grindstone Mule Tour built with hand tools on the north shore of Grindstone. Emmy and Bob first became members of the “Emmy was such an amazing person,” described Land Trust in 1990. And in 2008, they became loyal Skip Tolette, past TILT Trustee and summer resident Islanders. Over the years, they helped make projects of Grindstone Island. “Her love for the Island and like the Grindstone Island Nature Trail, Picnic Point the people was unwavering. It was truly amazing to Gazebo and Mid River Barn Restoration possible. watch Emmy put together her annual scavenger hunt While TILT and the entire Grindstone community for the grandchildren. Nothing gave her greater joy have lost a wonderful friend, Emmy’s kindness and than discovering nature with the kids.” generosity are sure to live on. Included below is a link “While I didn’t have the chance to spend too to Emmy’s obituary. The family has asked that in lieu much time with Emmy, I recall joining her and Ken of flowers, memorial contributions be made to TILT. Deedy on several Mule Tours around the Island,” Emmy Sorth’s Obituary - https://www.trib- said Jake Tibbles, TILT’s Executive Director. “Both utearchive.com/obituaries/19882243/Mary-Emma- Ken and Emmy shared such a great fondness for each Sorth/Erie/Pennsylvania/Dusckas---Martin-Funeral- other. It was always a treat to ride along with them Home

23 A Lasting Legacy – Matthew Heineman This past November, we lost a dear friend, Mat- thew Heineman. A true and spirited River Rat, Matt’s love of the Thousand Islands ran deep and was adored by many. His support of TILT first began in 1996 and continued throughout the years. Most recently, Matt helped ex- pand TILT’s Treks & KidsTreks programming. Matt was committed to ensuring that TILT had the financial resources needed to provide our educa- tion programs to youngsters. Matt never let us forget the importance of getting the next generation involved in environmental conservation and the outdoors. For those who did not have the opportunity to get to know Matt, he was a friend and a neighbor. Above all, he was a man of enormous generosity and compas- Matt Heineman made his career in advertising and video production and produced a film about the Thousand Islands called “Rolling on the sion. Like four generations of Heinemans, he had a River”. passionate concern for the environment. Most impor- tantly, Matt realized that he had the capacity to make a There is no question that Matt’s love and passion difference and he had the will to do so. Alongside his for nature and the outdoors was forged at an early age, sister Deborah Heineman, Matt played an integral role born from the Heineman Family’s unwavering appre- in making the conservation of Picton Island possible. ciation, awareness, and understanding of our region’s The Heineman’s conservation legacy began with natural resources and their selfless efforts to restore Matt and Debbie’s grandparents, Bernard and Lucy and protect them. One of Matt’s last acts of kind- Heineman. Bernard and Lucy were early environ- ness and generosity was a financial bequest to TILT. mentalists who, early on in life, developed an incred- Considering Matt’s love for getting kids out on the ible affinity for the Thousand Islands. During their land and introducing them to nature, TILT’s Board of lifetime, Bernard and Lucy pieced together many Trustees has designated the gift as part of its perma- parcels on Picton, later forming what would become nent Environmental Education Fund. the largest unsubdivided island on the US side of the Land conservation is an investment in our future. Thousand Islands. And leaving a legacy is one of the most valuable, en- In 1995, their sons, Jack, Bill and Andy, honored during gifts one can ever give. As a member of TILT’s Bernard and Lucy by helping TILT establish the 230- Thousand Islands Forever Legacy Program, Matt acre Heneman Family Songbird Forest & Nature Pre- planned a bequest gift to TILT to honor his legacy and serve on Grindstone Island. The Preserve is a haven his family’s impact on the region. Members of Thou- for neotropical songbirds, like the Cerulean Warbler, sand Islands Forever represent a group of passionate whose natural habitat has been lost to overdevelop- individuals who have made a perpetual commitment ment and fragmentation. The Preserve is also home to to the conservation of the Thousand Islands and St. a variety of other wildlife. Lawrence River Valley regions. The Family’s conservation legacy was further ig- While we mourn the loss of a member of our nited in 2014, when Matt and Debbie, working closely River family, we celebrate the meaningful and last- with their cousins, partnered with TILT to advance the ing impacts that Matt made possible. We are forever Picton Island Conservation Initiative. By the end of grateful. 2018, Matt and Debbie had guided TILT through the Matt Heineman’s Obituary – https://www.cum- protection of 200 acres of mature mixed forest and mingsfuneral.com/memorials/item/893-matthew-d- over 20,000 linear feet of undeveloped shoreline. heineman.html

24 The TILT Office is Open and Ready to Serve You!

Located at 135 John Street in Clayton, TILT’s of- fice is conveniently located at the intersection of the Village Docks, Veterans Memorial and the Clay- ton Riverwalk. So please stop in and say hi. While you’re here be sure to pick up a few trail guides and informa- tion on upcoming Treks and Pro- grams from our reception desk or even a new TILT hat and canvas tote bag from the storefront. We Photo by Feather in Flight Productions. look forward to seeing you soon!

Have a positive impact on future generations. THOUSAND ISLANDS FOREVER CREATE YOUR LEGACY

Create and strengthen Please consider joining the Thousand your family legacy. Islands Forever Legacy Program to make a difference in the place you love, and protect the Thousand Islands, Forever.

To add the Thousand Islands Land Trust to your estate Take care of the land. plan today, please visit www.TILandTrust.org for more information or contact us at 315-686-5345.

The tax identification number of the Thousand Islands Land Trust is 22-2629183.

Crooked Creek Hammond, NY Center photograph by Chris Murray Photography Forever.

25 2021 Calendar of Treks, Events and Volunteer Opportunities For more information, contact Shannon Walter, Education & Outreach Coordinator, [email protected], or phone the office at 315-686-5345. Thursday May 13th, 5:30 -7:30 pm Monday, June 21st, 9am Virtual eBird Training with Dan Miller Summer Solstice Walking Meditation A virtual training to learn how to use the eBird app on with BJ Mosher your smartphone and computer. Chippewa Bay Preserve De-Stress in Nature” with a walking meditation ses- sion focused on mindfulness and contemplation. Saturday, May 15th, 7am - 10am “Warbler Walk” Trek with Dan Miller Otter Creek Preserve Saturday, June 26th, 9am – 10:30am Birders of all skill levels are welcome to practice identi- 4th Annual Mutt Strut in partnership fication skills. You’ll have the opportunity to see many with the JSPCA bird species and log valuable citizen science data. Zenda Farms Preserve $10 pre-registration / $15 day of registration per person Please ensure your dog is in proper physical condition Saturday, June 5th, 10am to participate and has proof of rabies vaccination, tag Spring Stewardship Day or license available. Sissy Danforth Rivergate Trail Wear work clothes and be sure to bring gloves. Per- sonal hand-tools are recommended, but not required. Thursday, July 1st, 10am TILT will provide water and lunch. Summer Yoga with River Yoga Foster-Blake Woods Preserve All ability levels welcomed and a limited number of Monday, June 7th, 6-7 pm mats and props are available if needed. iNaturalist & Seek Training with Dan Miller A virtual training to learn how to use the iNaturalist Saturday, July 17th, 8-9am and Seek apps on your smartphone and computer. Annual Loon Census with Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation Various Locations (chosen by partici- Sunday June 13th - Saturday June 19th pants) Seek and Find Nature Help collect valuable data from throughout the 1000 TILT’s Week-long Bioblitz Islands Region. Various Locations Download both the iNaturalist and Seek app and take your tech outside.Learn to utilize your smartphone Tuesday, July 20th, 10am as a tool for nature while collecting valuable citizen- Buzz On Bugs KidsTrek science data. Zenda Farms Preserve Get a closer look at the creepy, crawly and cute bugs that call the 1000 Islands home. Snacks will be pro- vided. KidsTrek participants must be accompanied by an adult.

26 Thursday, August 26th, 5:30pm Saturday, July 24th 6-9pm Birkhead Lecture Annual Summer Gathering Fundraiser Zenda Farms Preserve Coyote Moon Vineyards Learn more about conservation, stewardship and sci- $100 per person ence led by distinguished presenters.

Thursday, August 5th, 5pm-7pm Saturday, September 11th, 10am-12pm Volunteer Recognition Day Otter Creek 5K Family Fun Run Northern Flow Vineyards $15 pre-registration, $20 day of event A casual reception and awards presentation to thank our volunteers for all of their hard work. If you are interested in becoming a TILT volunteer, Saturday, September 18th, 10am you are welcome to attend this event. Fall Stewardship Day Potters Beach Preserve Wear work clothes and be sure to bring gloves. Per- Friday, August 6th, 10am – 12:30pm sonal hand-tools are recommended, but not required. “Healthy Land = Healthy River” TILT will provide water and lunch. TILTKids Day Camp at TI Park Kids will hike, run, play, and even wade through the water, while discovering the health of our River and Wednesday, September 22nd, 10am its tributaries. Lunch provided. KidsTrek participants Fall Equinox Walking Meditation must be accompanied by an adult. with BJ Mosher Otter Creek Preserve “De-Stress in Nature” with a walking meditation ses- Tuesday, August 17th, 10am-1pm sion focused on mindfulness and contemplation. Chippewa Bay Kayak Adventure Sunday, October 3rd, 1pm Riverbay Adventure Inn All-levels are welcome to explore beautiful Chippewa Bay and Chippewa Creek. Lunch will be provided by Fall Foliage Hike with HFY Inc. Riverbay Adventure Inn. A limited number of single Crooked Creek Preserve and Macsherry and double kayaks is available for a $15 rental fee, in Trail partnership with Riverbay Adventure Inn. Get unique views of the changing trees and learn how to identify trees by their falling leaves.

Thursday, August 19th, 5pm-7pm Major Donor Appreciation Event Saturday, October 23rd, 10am at the home of Fall Yoga with River Yoga Molly and Darden MacWade, Otter Creek Preserve Point Marguerite All ability levels welcomed and a limited number of Watch for your invitation. mats and props are available if needed.

Tuesday, August 24th, 8:30am Common Tern Nesting Grid Removal Eagle Wing Shoals & Tidd Island Work gloves are recommended and lunch will be pro- vided. This event is weather dependent - we will call registered participants to confirm the date. 27 Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage P A I D Permit No. 12 Clayton, NY 13624 135 John Street PO Box 238 Clayton, New York 13624 (315) 686-5345 www.tilandtrust.org

An Accredited Land Trust & Member of the Land Trust Alliance

Stay Connected with TILT!

July 17, 2021 August 5, 2021 September 11, 2021 Summer Gathering at Volunteer Recognition at Otter Creek Fun Run Coyote Moon Vineyards Northern Flow Vineyards at Otter Creek Preserve

August 19, 2021 Major Donor Recognition at Point Marguerite

Save The Dates Please stay tuned for timely updates concerning our events in 2021