Martin Yenawine, Executive Director
Martin Yenawine has been appointed Executive Director of the Thousand Islands Land Trust. Martin has over 35 years of experience leading and growing both public and private corporations and non-profit organizations, including Hospice, publicly held health service companies, emergency medical service providers, the United Way and countless civic and community organizations.
Martin grew up in the Syracuse area and has a long connection to the Thousand Islands. He has a familiar face along the river, and is committed to its future. “TILT’s board of directors and staff, over the years, have built a legacy of caring for scenic beauty, wildlife habitats and outdoor recreation in the 1000 Islands region. I feel privileged to advance this work,” says Martin. Martin and his wife Linda live year-round on Wellesley Island. Contact Martin.
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Jake Tibbles, Assistant Executive Director and Land Steward
Jake was appointed Assistant Director and Land Steward in April 2011, after serving as Interim Director for six months. He has been with the land trust since 2007 when he had an internship through SUNY Cortland and SUNY Potsdam. He was hired full-time in 2008 as Director of Stewardship, responsible for maintaining TILT's land records; compiling data, monitoring conservation easements, and assisting land owners in understanding their easements.
Jake works closely with TILT's conservation partners, like the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation and Ducks Unlimited. He also supervises seasonal land stewards and volunteers, and plays a key role in TILT's community outreach.
A graduate of SUNY Cortland with a degree in Environmental Science, he studied rainforest ecology and coastal marine biology in Belize and became a certified diver. His knowledge of wildlife and background in biology are great assets to the stewardship program.
Jake grew up in Redwood, NY and knows and loves the Thousand Islands region. He hikes, fishes, hunts and enjoys water sports. He has a keen appreciation for the importance of the St. Lawrence River system and is pleased to have the opportunity to work in its behalf. Contact Jake.
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Susie Wood, Membership Coordinator
Susie Wood has been a North Country resident for over 20 years, during which time she has worked for the Shipyard Museum (now the Antique Boat Museum) and was a freelance graphic designer. She taught high school English and edited several newsletters and journals.
Her connection to the Thousand Islands began in Chippewa Bay where her family has summered for over 80 years. She and her husband live in Macomb, near Black Lake. Contact Susie.