The Thousand Islands Land Trust Reflections Vol. 20 No. 2 FALL 2020 PO Box 238 . 135 John Street . Clayton, 13624 (315) 686-5345 . www.tilandtrust.org TILT Earns National Recognition

Zenda Farms Preserve

ne thing that unites us as a public’s trust. creditation Commission awarded nation is land: Americans “Accreditation indicates that renewed accreditation, signifying strongly support saving the TILT conducts its business with its confidence that TILT’s lands openO spaces they love. Since 1985, the highest standards possible will be protected forever. The Land TILT has been working to conserve and assures our donors, support- Trust Accreditation program rec- the natural beauty, diverse wildlife ers, and neighbors that the land ognizes land conservation organi- habitat, water quality, and outdoor trust is committed to its long- zations that meet national quality recreation opportunities of the term responsibilities and perme- standards for protecting important Thousand Islands region, for pres- nance of our land conservation natural places and working lands ent and future generations. Today, work,” said Greg McLean, Board forever. TILT is excited to announce that it President. The Land Trust Accredita- has renewed its Land Trust Accred- Through this renewal pro- tion Commission, an independent itation – proving once again that, cess, TILT provided extensive program of the Land Trust Alli- as part of a network of over 400 documentation and was subject ance, conducts a review of each accredited land trusts across the na- to a comprehensive third-party applicant’s policies and programs. tion, it is committed to professional evaluation prior to achieving this For TILT, being an accredited land excellence and to maintaining the distinction. The Land Trust Ac- continued on page 2 trust represents many years of hard ments, including important wetland, work and an ongoing commitment to grassland and woodland habitat. This conserving the natural places we all includes 10 Signature Preserves and love within the Thousand Islands and over 20 miles of multi-use trails that greater St. Lawrence River Valley. are open to the public, year-round. Board of Trustees “This is yet another example During the year, TILT hosts annual Greg McLean, President of how TILT has become a leader in TILTreks, KidsTreks and TILTKids Larry Kingsley, Vice President conservation and a proven example Day Camp programs, which promote Robin Hoffman, Secretary of non-profit excellence. Highlighted living, learning and conserving in the Mike Phelps, Treasurer through the review process was the Thousand Islands. Jane Carver, Member at Large Commission’s recognition of TILT’s TILT was initially awarded Na- Ben Walldroff, Member at Large Todd Atkinson Strategic Conservation Plan. When tional Accreditation by the Land Trust Cindy Bower developed, TILT’s Strategic Conser- Alliance Accreditation Commission Jeff Burt vation Plan was and continues to be in 2009, and was among the second John Cardamone seen as one of the most cutting-edge class of land trusts to receive this dis- John Farrell blueprints for land conservation in tinction. TILT was awarded their first Jane Heffron Dave Lucas the country,” explained Jake Tibbles, renewal of accreditation in 2014, and Art Mack Executive Director. this marks TILT’s second renewal. Molly Macsherry MacWade Since its founding, TILT has “It is exciting to recognize Janice McPhail helped safeguard the regional land- TILT’s continued commitment to Josh Truman scape of the Thousand Islands by national standards by renewing this Carol Munro, Trustee Emerita accepting conservation easements, ac- national mark of distinction,” said quiring property and by establishing Melissa Kalvestrand, Executive accessible areas available for public Director of the Commission. “Donors enjoyment. Currently, TILT protects and partners can trust that the more over 11,000 acres of land, both fee- than 400 accredited land trusts across owned land and conservation ease- the country are united behind strong standards and have demonstrated sound finances, ethical conduct, responsible governance, and lasting stewardship.” TILT is one of 1,363 land trusts across the United States according to the Land Trust Alli- ance’s most recent National Land Trust Census. A complete list of accredited land trusts and more information about the process and ben- efits can be found Grindstone Island aerial by Alex MacLean. TILT conserves over half of the island through con- at www.landtrustac- servation easements and fee-owned land. creditation.org. Learn more about TILT’s work to conserve the Thousand Islands region at www.tilandtrust.org

2 Sissy Danforth Rivergate Trail Community Connection Project Goal: $610,000 In partnership with the Village of Clayton, Town of Clayton and the Northern New York Community Foundation $610,000 (NNYCF), the Thousand Islands Land Trust is working to $600,000 complete the connection of the Sissy Danforth Rivergate Trail to the Riverwalk in downtown Clayton. “Thank you to TILT for your dedication and commitment to connect $550,000 our past Trails and Rails to our Riverwalk providing access from the heart of the village, for a wonderful outdoors $500,000 experience.”- Norma Zimmer; Village of Clayton Mayor.

Together, we can meet ambitious goals to restore $450,000 a piece of our region’s heritage, the historic railroad trestle bridge. “The Community Foundation is excited $431,250 with to be working with TILT to ensure the future for the $400,000 matching Rivergate Trail and to help improve the region that we Commitments all care so much about,” explained Max DelSignore, $350,000 NNYCF Assistant Director. The Foudation recently made a $100,000 matching commitment to TILT to establish Total Donations an endowment and ensure the forever stewardship of Raised: $300,000 $318,350 the trail and trestle. $318,350 Total match left: $112,900 $250,000 Together we can: $200,000 Connect this trail with the popular Riverwalk in the Village of Clayton, creating a corridor for hiking, biking, $150,000 and cross-country skiing, alongside our region’s most precious wetlands, creeks, grasslands and forests. Restore and enhance a local asset, contribute to our $100,000 vibrant quality of the life, protect our natural resources and provide recreation opportunities that support the vitality of our local economy. Sustain nature and a piece of history by building an endowment and advancing the stewardship work required “Many communities lack up-to-date lodging and to maintain the unique piece of our region. walk-able downtowns. Clayton has a new $24 million hotel and a vibrant, walk-able down- YouR TReSTle. town: It is the County’s art, events and rec- YouR CommuniTY. reation center. This new trail will link Clayton’s downtown into the rural countryside.” - Mike Geiss YouR TRail. “Completion of this trail was a lifelong dream of Mike’s who passed away in May, 2019, especially as its use for bicycles and wheelchairs. Your support To find out how you can contribute, please would fulfill his legacy.” - Sandy Geiss contact TILT at 315-686-5345. Thank you for supporting this Community-wide Project!

3 Tributes Remembering Bruce & Elaine Brooks March 21 - September 24, 2020 In memory of Renee Adwar Elissa Sampson In memory of Barbara Babowicz Rodney Babowicz In memory of Camilla Bentzen Baum, Charles & Helena Bentzen Chuck Baum In memory of Doug Banister Phillip & Marion Johnson In memory of Dr. Louis Benton Richard & Elizabeth Wright In memory of Bruce Brooks Pamela Barton Tom & Robyn Davison Janice & Dan McPhail Jake Tibbles In memory of Don Brown Bruce and Elaine Brooks are pictured with their daughter - and TILT Trustee - Janice McPhail. Janice Brown photo © Steve Sturtz In memory of Dot Carnegie John Carnegie It is with great sadness that we share word that Bruce and Elaine Brooks In memory of MacDonald Clark passed away earlier this year. For those who did not have the opportunity to get Ted & Kathy Drum to know Bruce and Elaine, they were genuine people and true River Rats. And In memory of Donald Combs their love for Grindstone Island was contagious. Craig & Patty Esford When you think of the Brooks family, you can only think of the deep roots In memory of Dorothy Cosselman Robert & Tori Cosselman that tie Grindstone Island together. The Dano, Cummings and Rusho roots inter- In memory of Sissy & Bill Danforth twine with the Brooks roots to add to the bedrock that is the Island community. John & Candace Marsellus Bruce’s father, Irving Brooks, married Jessie Dano, grounding their 1000 Islands Dave & Caroline Munro life by honeymooning on Grenell Island in 1904. Bruce was a River Rat from In memory of Ken Deedy Barbara Deedy the start, living first in Jessie’s family house on Grindstone and later in “Day- Steve & Vici Diehl brook,” the house he built with his father and brother. He laid the stone himself Veronica & James Dolan for the fireplace that now graces Janice & Dan McPhail’s living room in the Pat Rich Joe & Millie Savarese Brooks family home. Ken Deedy The Brooks were an integral part of the Grindstone Community. They were Environmental Internship regular church goers, and Bruce served on the GIUMC Church Council while John & Kim Farrell Elaine hosted early Men’s and Women’s Coffee in the cottage they built next to In memory of Daybrook. Bruce and Elaine set a high standard for Men's and Women’s Coffee Dr. Anne K. Del Borgo Nancy Del Borgo but the dinners were where they excelled. In memory of Rex Ennis Not only were Bruce and Elaine dedicated and passionate members of the Janet Lamb-Ennis Grindstone Island community, they were long standing supporters of TILT’s land Jake Tibbles conservation efforts. In 2010, they donated a critical piece of Grindstone Island In memory of Joseph & Patricia Ficano waterfront to TILT. This property is now the site of TILT’s Grindstone Island Jeff Ficano Stewardship Facility. It also houses TIERS emergency equipment for the ben- In honor of Mary & Patrick Fowles efit of all who live, work and play on the Island. The “Bruce and Elaine Brooks Margot Rendall & George Gardner Building” is a lasting tribute to their love of Grindstone, its land and the families Peter Rendall & Pamela Adelman Francie Minder who are lucky enough to share its bounty. In memory of Dick Fulton While the Brooks Family and Grindstone community have lost great Michael Fulton friends, Bruce & Elaine’s kindness and generosity are sure to live on.

4 Tributes - cont. 135 John Street Reborn In memory of Michael Geiss Sandy Geiss The TILT Board and Staff are in- Doug & Dianne Rogers credibly excited to share with you our Jake Tibbles newly renovated building at 135 John In memory of Hunter Grimes Martha Grimes Street. Located at the intersection of In memory of Kay Heineman the Village Docks, Veterans Memorial Harriet Heineman and Clayton Riverwalk, TILT looks In memory of Peter Hendley forward to welcoming visits from Linda Hendley & Family year-round residents, summer residents In memory of Zell & Jim Kerr Meg Kerr & Bob Vanderslice and tourists alike. In memory of Gary King In addition to being the proposed Mark Boss location of TILT’s Discovery Center In honor of Eric & Judy Mower – “The Gateway to the Outdoors,” the Maxine Quigg first floor has a new conference room In memory of John Murray which will be available to our many Jean Murray In memory of Robert J. Nemec community partners: fellow non-profits, Paul & Elaine Nemec community clubs and organizations. In memory of Joan Perconti We look forward to again hosting our Special recognition goes to Michael Cooke local Rotary Club and Lions Club. Jonathan and Kristen Taylor, Tay- In memory of Jim Rendall, The newly renovated space also Chava Minder, Bob Minder lored Architecture, and Ben and Jada Francie Rendall Minder provides TILT with a formal reception Walldroff, Jade Stone Engineering. In memory of Walter & Louise Rice area, storefront, and redesigned up- Taylored Architecture and Jade Stone Florence Lewis Rice & Leroy Lewis stairs office space. And with solar pan- Engineering provided significant in- In memory of els being installed on the roof, much kind professional services that sup- Dr. & Mrs. Eugene Robinson Marcy & Chris Dembs consideration was given to ensuring ported the renovation. In memory of Nanette “Tuni” the efficiency and long term sustain- And a sincerest thanks goes to Rodormer ability of the building. TILT’s Building Committee – Art Rob Rodormer Our heartfelt appreciation is Mack, Robin Hoffman, Ben Walldroff, In memory of Madolyn & Leonard Root extended to Carol and Dick Munro and John Cardamone. Thank you for Philip & Roxanne Pratt and the Munro Family for making this your care and guidance. In memory of Riggs Smith much needed renovation possible. You TILT plans to host an open house Nan Smith are true champions of TILT and the in the summer of 2021. Please feel free In memory of Stephen Storie entire River community. to stop in and see us soon! Wayne & Lana Storie In memory of Martha Tack Elaine Tack In memory of Anne R. Talcott Ben & Rebecca Wright In honor of my friends at TILT! Susie Wood & David Duff In memory of Joanne Truman Josh & Rebecca Truman In memory of J. Wyatt Uhlein John & Catherine Uhlein Jake Tibbles In memory of Aaron Vogel Charlann Tranella In honor of Richard Withington Nancy Del Borgo In honor of Susie Wood Sandy Wood Forand & Bernie Forand

5 photo © Chris Murray Photography

Secretive Wetland Birds by Gerry Smith, Consulting Ornithologist

here is a group of local species such as Wood Duck and the last half century. A major factor waterbirds that even many Hooded Merganser. The habits has been the previous water level dedicated river rats are not of spring waterfowl, particularly management regime that affected familiarT with. They are secretive courtship antics, make them far the ratio of cattail/sedge meadow denizens of emergent wetlands more obvious to us than other birds to open water. Hopefully the new along the St. Lawrence River and arriving close behind. Evidence regime of Plan 2014 will greatly Lake Ontario. While some wetland suggests that rails such as the Vir- improve this situation. birds, such as Black Tern and Great ginia Rail and Common Gallinule Our most frequent wetland Blue Heron, are obvious to observ- arrive by mid April. They are often shorebird is the Wilson’s Snipe. ers, others are not. These more silent for another 2-4 weeks mak- This species may use even small secretive species include some ing them difficult to detect. Rails pothole type wetlands. Usually herons, rails, shorebirds and water- remain a bit of an enigma even to detected by the winnowing sound fowl as well as wetland songbirds. experienced observers. made by its wing feathers during Most often they are only detected Our one local breeding grebe courtship displays, the male may be by sounds uttered or when flush- species, the Pied-billed, often seen circling high above its breed- ing and flying reluctantly for short returns by late March but may ing territory. This performance to distances before dropping back into remain quiet for a while. Once attract a mate is spectacular and the marsh. These interesting but they commence the loud territorial well worth spending a few min- little known birds are a challenge mating call proclaiming ownership utes watching. It is most often for people to become familiar with. of their piece of marsh, they are performed between early April and As the large wetlands of our hard to miss. Often mistaken for a mid-June during the height of the region become ice free in spring, small duck when seen, their ringing breeding season. early breeders return. The earliest COW COW COW call is unique. Three regular species of the arrivals tend to be hardy waterfowl This species has declined sharply in enigmatic rail clan occur in our

Pied-billed Grebe

6 wetlands from April to October. Common Gallinule These are the Virginia Rail, Sora and Common Gallinule. A fourth species, the King Rail, occasion- ally wanders this far north. These denizens of deep wet vegetation are rarely seen but often heard. All have distinctive territorial songs and calls that announce their presence from May to July. Once ceasing to call, they disappear into their watery realm until the follow- ing spring. Even during migration, most reports by birders are a result of rails colliding with structures or other causes of mortality. The large Great Blue Heron is one of the most familiar birds their vocalizations. While the Least the cattails. These jaunty little to River Rats everywhere. While makes a distinctive COO COO birds often sing from atop stalks of this species does feed in emergent COO, similar to a Black-billed wetland plants; thus they are easier wetlands it does not nest there. Cuckoo, the American’s sound, ap- to see than many marsh dwellers. Some of the Great Blue’s smaller propriate to its size, will blow you Also bolder than many birds that cousins are among the interesting away. Colloquially know as “Thun- inhabit the marshlands, they will secretive birds of wetland commu- der Pumper” this species’ territorial often permit fairly close approach “song” is extraordinary. By filling by canoe or kayak. Other species of its chest cavity with air and releas- songbirds such as Swamp Sparrow ing it, the male creates a sound that breed in this habitat but they are can be heard for great distances. not restricted to it. The words “unk ka chuonk” re- The ecological value of peated several times is the best wetlands to a myriad of life forms representation I can manage. Once has been documented for decades. heard, this call will never be mis- Preserving all existing wetlands taken for any thing else. It sounds large and small while attempting like a stake being pounded into to restore those damaged by previ- the marsh. Having observed male ous generations is essential. Once Marsh Wren American Bitterns delivering this considered waste lands, we have nities. My favorites are the bitterns, performance, my impression is that learned that they are essential to the American and Least. The first they look like they are about to web of life on this planet. To quote standing half as tall as a Great Blue explode. Clearly it works for their from a late governor and senator and the latter capable of fitting in lady loves and, although declining, from Florida, “My granddaddy an oversized coat pocket. Both are the species persists. tried to drain the Everglades. I am masters of camouflage being excel- While many species of song- trying to restore them.” We should lent at hiding in plain sight, Often birds use large coastal wetlands, seek to do as well for local wet- “freezing” with neck and head few are obligate breeders in such lands drained for agriculture and extended straight up, their cryptic habitat. One of the best examples other purposes. is the Marsh Wren. This specialist coloration gives them a remarkable Bird photos courtesy of Julie K. Covey/ resemblance to surrounding marsh relative of the familiar House Wren Covey Images. To see more of her nature arrives on the River in late April. photography, check out Nature in NNY vegetation. on Facebook. As with many marshland spe- During the breeding season its cies there is nothing cryptic about staccato song reverberates through 7 New Boat Launch Steward Season a Success This summer, TILT partnered with the St. Lawrence Eastern Lake 2020 LAUNCHES Ontario Partnership for Regional Steward 6: Steward 1: Sackets Harbor Invasive Species Management Massena Intake South Sandy Creek (SLELO PRISM) to administer Heuvelton Boat Launch Steward 7: Steward 2: North Sandy Pond a watercraft inspection steward- Butterfield Lake, Redwood Lake Bonaparte ship program throughout the Millsite Lake, Redwood Steward 8: Steward 3: Keewaydin Salmon River Reservoir- Redfield region. Ten Stewards were hired Mary Street Boat Launch Pine Grove Wrights Landing and trained to educate the public Wellseley Island State Park about how to look for and remove Steward 9: Phoenix Steward 4: Indian Point aquatic invasive species from their Cape Vincent Godfrey Point boating and fishing equipment, and Three Mile Bay, Lake Ontario Steward 10: Steward 5: Godfrey Point were stationed at a total of 20 boat Henderson Harbor Toad Harbor launches throughout the region. Montario Point As part of a larger statewide effort, Boat Launch Stewards are quality in the Thousand Islands that informs invasive species man- one of the NYS Department of region. They serve as a front-line agement throughout the state. Environmental Conservation’s defense against aquatic invasive Launches that were covered Aquatic Nuisance Species priorities, species, like Hydrilla, Eurasian by TILT-SLELO Stewards in deemed essential workers by New Water Milfoil, and Zebra Mus- TILT’s service area include Mary York State, with funding provided sels. Aquatic invasive species can Street in Clayton, Cape Vincent, from the Environmental Protection be transported by vessels between Three Mile Bay, Butterfield Lake, Fund. water bodies, dramatically altering Millsite Lake, Grass Point State This program is designed to the ecological processes in the lake Park, , and educate the public on Clean, Drain, and thereby resulting in poor water Wellesley Island State Park. Be- Dry protocols in an effort to pre- quality and reduced biodiversity. yond that, we staffed Boat Launch vent the spread of invasive species With boaters, the Stewards Stewards at launches stretching between water bodies, with the end conduct a voluntary inspection from Massena to Oneida Lake. goal being that boaters and fisher- and survey using a standardized To date, Stewards completed men are trained to inspect their protocol, engage in dialogue about 10,228 surveys. 96% of boaters vessels and equipment themselves invasive species, their impact, and agreed to an inspection, so nearly when no stewards are present. how to take preventative measures 10,000 boaters were taught how Boat Launch Stewards further to stop their spread, provide edu- to inspect their vessel for aquatic TILT’s mission of conserving water cational materials, and collect data hitchhikers. Most inspections took

Boat Launch Stewards at training session

8 2020 Boat Launch Statistics Boaters Reached by Vessel TypeBoaters Reached by PointPoint of Inspection of Inspection Vessel1% Type

1%

42% 39% place when boats or kayaks were launching. Inspections were com- 57% 61% pleted on retrieving vessels when possible (when they returned to the launch). Of boaters that were asked where they last launched, a major- Recreation Launching Retrieving ity had their boat in either the same Launching Retrieving waterbody or no waterbody in the RecreationFishing Fishing Other past 2 weeks. However, 16% of Other boaters launched their vessel in a Has the Boat Been in a different waterbody, meaning that Compliance with InspectionComplianceHas the Boat Been in a Previous Water Body in the their risk of spreading invasive spe- with Inspection PreviousPast 2 Weeks? Water Body in cies from one waterbody to another the Past 2 Weeks? was high. This demonstrates the vi- 4% tal role Boat Launch Stewards play in stopping the spread of aquatic invasive species. 26% TILT’s role in this program allowed us to drastically extend our 58% reach beyond the region, sharing 16% our message and ensuring that water quality is maintained in the River. 96% As the St. Lawrence River serves as the outflow for all of the Great Lakes, it is important to prevent the Agree to Inspection Same Waterbody Decline InspectionSame Waterbody DifferentDifferent Waterbody Waterbody No Waterbody spread of invasive species from all Agree to Inspection Decline Inspection water bodies that flow into it. No Waterbody While it was important to have Stewards stationed along the DistributionDistribution of Inspections by Location of Inspections by Location River in TILT’s service area, it is also vital to have Stewards dissem- 1400 1200 inating information broadly. We are 1000 grateful for this partnership with 800 600 SLELO PRISM and the hard work 400 of all of our Boat Launch Stewards 200 0 this season, and encourage boaters to remember to Clean, Drain, Dry your vessels to stop the spread of aquatic invasive species.

9 Protected & Connected: Growing the Crooked Creek Preserve...

Hemlock stand on Wilton property Wetlands on Wilton property adding to Crooked Creek Preserve

TILT Founder Ken Deedy once property in the Town of Alexandria. TILT purchased said that “when it comes to preserving habitat, the the two parcels with private contributions as well as rule of thumb is bigger is better.” Ken recognized that federal and state grant funding. Known as the Wilton large nature preserves and other protected open spaces and Runkles acquisitions, TILT’s new land protection serve as sanctuaries of biodiversity. He skillfully put projects bring the Crooked Creek Preserve to 2,200 this logic to work and facilitated conservation projects acres of contiguous lands and waters, a feat that Ken on thousands of acres along the upper St. Lawrence most certainly would have relished. River, laying the foundation for many of TILT’s great- The new properties, which are identified as be- est land protection initiatives. 0 0.3750.75 1.5 2.25 3 Building upon this concept are the Miles lynchpins of conservation: connectivity, µ and its antithesis, fragmentation. Land- scapes with a high degree of intercon- nected habitat networks, pathways and

st re o F corridors bolster long-term ecological te ta S d n o m integrity. That is, bigger, and more con- m a H th u o nected, is better. It is TILT’s strategic S conservation mission to conserve large swaths of connected habitat to promote biodiversity and prevent habitat fragmen- tation. This summer, TILT was able to check both of these boxes by acquiring two parcels that contain 207-acres of Wilton Parcel pristine forest, wetland, grassland and TILT Owned TILT Easements open-water habitats that link the Crooked State or Federal Land NYS ITS GIS Program Office, Esri, HERE, Garmin, (c) OpenStreetMap contributors, Esri, HERE, Garmin, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS user community Creek Preserve to its Butterfield Marsh 10 Protected & Connected: ... and New Protection on Grindstone ing climate change resilient, were listed for sale on marsh and its upland buffer, and maintains the natural the open market. They have a mile of creek frontage beauty of the undeveloped shoreline near the Picton and a mile of road frontage along Routes 1 and 111, Channel. Aside from being a muskellunge nursery site, and TILT acted quickly to prevent the imminent risk the marsh has been known to host the New York State of habitat fragmentation that would result from these threatened Blanding’s turtle as well as the state endan- parcels being developed. “We were able to be nimble gered fish, the pugnose shiner. “Protecting the marsh and embrace this once-in-a-lifetime land protection with a conservation easement was the most impact- opportunity in the heart of the Algonquin to Adiron- ful way of honoring the legacy of my dear friend and dack (A2A) wildlife corridor,” said Spencer Busler, neighbor Ken Deedy,” said William Ramseier, ease- Assistant Director. “If you’re a wildlife connoisseur, ment grantor. “Ken’s vision and passion for the Thou- the Wilton and Runkles properties will not disappoint, sand Islands were sincerely inspiring. I’m grateful to from harriers and herons to turkeys and turtles.” be able to contribute to that tradition.” By conserving this parcel, TILT is also protecting Ken’s conservation legacy was the natural resources that fuel the region’s tourism- carried on once again this summer on Grindstone based economy. Island with the closing of the Ramseier Conservation Large isolated preserves are immensely impor- Easement. The 9-acre conservation easement, which tant, as are protected wildlife corridors and critical abuts TILT’s Heineman Songbird Forest at the foot of linkages. But they become far more meaningful when Grindstone, was acquired via bargain-sale from Wil- implemented together. After all, what good is a bridge liam Ramseier. The easement protects a critical coastal that leads to nowhere?

Coastal marsh protected by the Ramseier easement

11 Stewardship in the Time of Covid As we sit and watch the colors several of our Signature slowly change along the River it Preserves. is hard to forget, even for just a It was great to see moment, the stresses of everyday a significant increase in life. With the last ten months hav- the utilization of TILT’s ing created much uncertainty, it Preserves and Trails. is important to stop and embrace This summer, members the simplicity of nature, reminding and guests of our River ourselves that, like the changing of communities had the the leaves, we too, will continue to opportunity to enjoy the change, grow and overcome. newly resurfaced Lois An argument could be made Jean and John Mac- that now is our time to re-create Farlane Trail at Zenda MacFarlane Trail at Zenda Farms Preserve our relationship with the natural Farms Preserve. These world. When large social gather- trail improvements of accessible hiking, biking, and ings and long-distance travel come provide safe and enjoyable outdoor cross country skiing. with certain restrictions, we have recreation as we all look for new Significant time was spent an opportunity to shift on Grindstone Island our focus to our own implementing several experiences in our own preserve enhancement “backyards.” projects. TILT’s Stew- As it was for all ardship Staff worked of us, this summer was hard to improve access different for TILT. We across its island pre- were unable to host serves while enhancing the variety of different several of its properties Treks and Events that for the benefit of both we typically offer each Trailhead for the Sissy Danforth Rivergate Trail on East Line Road native flora and fauna. year. However, through We are excited to have the unwavering support from our and fun ways to get outside. completed these projects and look local communities along the River, A new gazebo was installed at forward to monitoring their impacts TILT was able to carry out some the Rivergate Trailhead located just moving forward. wonderful stewardship projects on outside of Clayton on East Line We hope these preserve im- Road. With this new addi- provements will encourage outdoor tion now in place, we invite recreation as we work to strengthen everyone to check out the the appreciation of time spent progress on the Rivergate outdoors. Most importantly, these Trail as we work towards projects would not be possible connecting the downtown without continued support from our Riverwalk to the Clayton passionate River communities. We countryside. Even more would like to thank everyone who exciting is the future revital- supports conservation in the Thou- ization of the historic trestle sand Islands. We hope that you which spans McCarn Creek, have a chance to get out on the land connecting two historic and embrace the natural world and sections of rail-trail while this very special place. Replacing a bridge on the Macsherry Trail providing over seven miles

12 Retirement is not Farewell Arthur Ashe once said that “From what we get, we can make a living; what we give, however, makes a life.” When the TILT staff consider all that Susie Wood did during her time here at TILT, we are com- pelled to believe that she also lives by this tenet. While it’s been over 10 months since Susie retired as TILT’s Membership Coordinator, her profound impact on both the organization and the people is felt each and every day. Though TILT has lost an irreplace- able member of its team, each one of us has gained an incredible friend and advocate for land conservation. During Susie’s 15 year tenure at TILT, she played an integral role in the development and implementation of TILT’s membership program and was a critical part of deepening the impact of the organization’s outreach and messaging. Susie worked tirelessly, day in and day out, quietly behind the scenes. Every invitation, every event list, every name tag, every newsletter was carefully crafted and/or scru- pulously edited by her watchful eye for detail, spelling and grammar. The roles that Susie took on at the office exceeded any sort of job de- scription and went far beyond the duties of a mentor. What we learned from her professionally and what she taught us about life is truly immeasurable. Susie had an incredible superpower of seeing each one of us wholly and providing precisely what we needed in any given moment – whether it was a piece of sage advice, a swift kick in the rear or a reminder not to take our- selves too seriously. It is bittersweet to reflect back on all that we accomplished. Together, we forged a new path forward for TILT. We are truly fortunate to have had the opportunity to work alongside Susie. And even more so, we are blessed to be able to call Susie our friend. For that, we are forever grateful. Susie not only made a difference through her work at TILT, but in the heart of the people she interacted with. She brought an authentic sense of comfort and stability to the organiza- tion, making it feel like a true family. On behalf of the TILT Board, members and volunteers we extend our sincerest ap- preciation to Susie for continuing to share her steadfast wisdom, thoughtful eyes and ears, and unwavering love. We wish Susie the best in this next chapter of her life. Your Friends, The TILT Staff.

13 2020 Loon Census

Photo by Sandy Adams Chase Miller and family, the lucky win- Thank you to all who par- censuses to make management ners of a John Miller III handcrafted loon ticipated in the 2020 Annual Loon recommendations and better direct paddle. All participants in TILT’s annual Census on Saturday, July 18th. We their efforts to restoring loon popu- loon census are eligible to win. had a record of nearly 80 sign-ups lations in the region. and 50 volunteers that returned Congratulations to the winner completed data forms - wow! We of this year’s loon paddle, Chase spotted 39 loons in the region (see Miller! Many thanks to John Miller map below). III for painting and donating this These yearly efforts truly absolutely beautiful piece, along make a difference for New York’s with the one-of-a-kind hand-carved Common Loons. Each observation stand. is incredibly valuable; even if you We hope you will consider didn’t spot a loon, your participa- joining us in next year’s Annual tion still provides important data! Loon Census on Saturday, July Completed census forms were 17th from 8-9am! In the meantime, sent to our partners at the Adiron- get outside and enjoy our trails and dack Center For Loon Conserva- the beautiful River that we, and the tion, who draw on these annual Common Loons, call home. A Common Loon near Three Sisters Lighthouse in Chippewa Bay. Photo by Patty Mondore.

Counting loons from a kayak near Calu- met Island. Photo by Dennis McCarthy.

14 Photo Contest Winners

Anne Fernald - June 29

Philip J. Conde - June 1 Lori Arnot - June 15

Veronica Hayes - July 13

Peggy Punch - July 27 Katie Hungerford - August 24

This summer, TILT invited all of our social media followers to get outside by participating in the 2020 Summer Photo Contest. A winning photo was selected every two weeks. Winners received a gift certificate or prize from a local Emilie Morrison - August 10 business and were featured on TILT’s social media pages. Thank you Photo Contest Sponsors! Please support those who support land conservation.

15 When I was offered this position as a Watercraft In- spection Steward, I was kind of nervous having to go up and talk to people and start conversations by myself, but this ended up being an amazing opportunity. Lauren

I learned so much about aquatic invasive species from the online training, becoming familiar with the plants coming out of the water on trailers and water- craft. Felicia

As the summer went on, boaters became much less apprehensive to speak with me and more interested in what I had to say about preventing the spread of invasive species in our waterways. Alex

Boat Launch Steward Reflections - 2020

16 A great number of boaters were thankful to have their waters protected and pledged to continue doing their part to prevent the spread of invasive species, both by cleaning their own equipment and by talking with other boaters on their travels. Hanna

Speaking to the boaters was fun for me because they were always very nice and Some skills I obtained understanding of what I was during this job was becoming doing. a more self-sufficient, inde- Gabe pendent worker and I can now identify many invasive and native species of plants on my own. Janey

17 Steward Reflections Continued... Summer Land Stewards Ryan Aubertine mainland to Grindstone on a huge way that the property lines are not Being my second year as a barge that was bringing heavy always chosen to most easily fit the Summer Land Steward, I knew equipment to the Island. Those two landscape. I got the opportunity to what to expect working for TILT, weeks on Grindstone really showed bushwhack through miles of fields, but with COVID, everything had the beauty of the Island that most thick brush, old growth forests, 60 people don’t get to see. foot cliff faces, and swamps, and I Working for TILT really am honestly grateful for it. showed me how important the I did also get to do some of Land Trust is. I saw firsthand how the normal Land Steward tasks to help care for the land while such as trail maintenance which allowing people to see and experi- was always refreshing. One par- ence nature. It was a pleasure and ticular project I helped on was I am thankful to have the opportu- rebuilding a footbridge along the nity to work there. Macsherry Trail on the Crooked Creek Preserve. I helped carry all of the lumber into the woods for Sean Heagerty the bridge, and worked with the rest of the stewardship staff on its My return to TILT this year construction. was unexpected. I had planned All in all I am very fortunate on starting an internship at Na- to have had the opportunity to tional Grid last May but my start return to TILT and I would like to date was pushed up to July. This thank Brandon, Jake and the rest of left me two months of unemploy- the staff for giving me the opportu- changed. For the most part I was ment, and I am incredibly grateful nity to come back. A lot of things the only Summer Land Steward, that I had the opportunity to come about 2020 haven’t been great, but which allowed me to spend more back to TILT. for me I can safely say my experi- time taking care of the preserves I worked as a Land Steward ence coming back to TILT was. that I had longed to see like Potters back in the summer of 2018 and Beach, the River view at Mac- found it to be one of my most valu- sherry, and the cliff views at Otter able employment opportunities. Creek. Seeing new additions since There is something about working last summer was nice as well. The in the heat and mud and bugs that Rivergate Trail is a pleasant walk really makes any job you will do back to a trestle bridge that has to after that feel like a cake walk. be the best view in my opinion. My experience this past Sadly, due to COVID, all summer was a little different TILT’s events were cancelled. This from 2018. A large part of my was a big disappointment since the work included the marking of events are fun to work at. Instead our preserve boundaries. This I got to help with the big projects. involved me using a GPS to These were mainly on Grindstone ensure I was on the boundary Island. I helped to build a road, line, all the while carrying a clean up Potters Beach, and an- bag full of nails, signs, flag- other property on the Island. I will ging, and high-viz tree paint. Sean Heagerty (l) and Ryan Aubertine haul never forget going across from the You quickly learn the hard materials into the Crooked Creek Preserve. 18 Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. New Donors March 20 - September 24, 2020

(Every Dollar Counts!) Stephen Achimore Sharon Adams It has been about a year now since Bruce & Genie Anderson stewardship staff installed donation Pamela Barton Chuck Baum boxes at our Signature Preserve trail- Ben Butler heads and we want to take a moment to Carman & Mary Lou Cerio thank everyone who generously makes William & Kim Conner Jeff Cox a donation while out hiking. To date Rebecca Dahl we have raised over $500! Thank you Jane Demer to all who generously give a little bit Craig & Patty Esford Vicky & Jerry Froome each time you enjoy time on the trail - Kevin & Marlene Hale we appreciate you! Eric Kling If you enjoy hiking the TILT trails Karin Kling Bright Tom LaClair and wish to share your support, dona- Ann Mazur tion boxes are located at our trailheads. Ryan & Sarah McKinley Please contribute to the stewardship Paul & Elaine Nemec and maintenance of TILT’s trails, so Kiera Pergram David Poulin that they remain open to the public for Maxine Quigg all to enjoy. Peter Rendall & Pamela Adelman Elissa Sampson Sepp & Amy Scanlin Daniel Sherman NY Philanthropist Wins Burl Bowl Jerry Smith Jeff & Janet Staples Congratulations to our 2020 Tom & Sue Storino Josh & Rebecca Truman Raffle Winner and thank you to all Assemblyman Mark Walczyk who participated in the raffle through buying tickets. This year’s raffle was a one-of- Be a a-kind burl bowl made from a fallen maple tree salvaged from the Crooked Creek Preserve by TILT supporter Tr a i l and expert craftsman Doug Drumm of Drumm Creations. Thank you Doug! blazer! On Friday, September 25th TILT staff held its long-awaited drawing in front of a live crowd of hopeful ticket- holders over Facebook Live. And the winning ticket holder was Tom Walk- er. Tom and his wife Mabel are long- time TILT supporters and champions Tom Walker, winner of the burl bowl, hand carved by Doug Drumm. photo by Laurie Pike. of the establishment of the Otter Creek Preserve. There generosity can also be widely felt throughout the entire North Country. Congratulations Tom! Join our new Together, nearly $3,200 was raised that will directly support stewardship efforts Monthly Giving on TILT’s 10 Signature Preserves. Your generosity is most appreciated, thank you. Program So…. please stay tuned for the announcement of TILT’s 2021 Raffle…this Information at new mystery piece will sure to delight all who are conservation minded and love www.TILandTrust.org the Thousand Islands! 19 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

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Stay Connected with TILT!

March 5, 2021 August 5, 2021 September 11, 2021 Winter Gathering Volunteer Recognition Otter Creek Fun Run in Florida at Northern Flow Vineyards at Otter Creek Preserve

June 11, 2021 August 19, 2021 Zenda Community Picnic Major Donor Recognition at Point Marguerite July 17, 2021 Summer Gathering at Coyote Moon Vineyards

Sa v e Th e Da t e s Pl e a s e st a y t u n e d f o r t i m e l y u pd at e s c o n c e r n i n g o u r e v e n ts in 2021