Thousand Islands Land Trust

Owls & Outdoors KidsTrek
2026-04-03 14:30 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Zenda Farms Preserve
Join naturalist Vici Diehl for a hands-on KidsTrek exploring the secret world of owls! Kids will learn fascinating facts about these nocturnal hunters, and connect with nature on a short hike on the Zenda Woods Trail. This interactive adventure is perfect for curious minds ready to investigate, explore, and learn about the wildlife around them. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
To be added to the waitlist, please email dmcilrath@tilandtrust.org. Thank you!

Common Tern Grid Nesting Installation
2026-04-15 08:30 - 11:30 | Eagle Wing Shoals & Tidd Island
TILT and conservation partner Save The River, along with community volunteers will be installing nesting boxes and gull exclusion grids on Eagle Wings Shoals and Tidd Island to protect the Common Tern, a NY state threatened species. Please meet at the TILT office at 8:30 am. Work gloves are recommended, and lunch will be provided.
Rain date: Thursday, April 16th.
This trek is now full. To be added to the waitlist, please call the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

14th Annual "For The Trees" Arbor Day Celebration
2026-04-24 10:00 - 11:30
The best way to celebrate Arbor Day is by taking action for our trees and environment — while having fun doing it! Whether it’s planting new trees, caring for existing ones, educating others about their importance, or supporting conservation efforts, every step makes a difference. Join the Thousand Islands Land Trust (TILT) at for our 14th annual “For the Trees” Community Event in celebration of Arbor Day. In twelve years, volunteers have helped to plant more than 850 trees at our Preserves and throughout the River communities.
We’re excited to plant even more trees, creating greener spaces, enhancing habitats, and contributing to a healthier environment for generations to come.
Location: Casino Island. Alexandria Bay NY, right off Fuller Street.
Please register by clicking this link, or by calling the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Thank you to Community Bank N.A., for generously sponsoring this trek!

Chippewa Bay Yellow Iris Pull at Chippewa Bay Preserve
2026-05-19 10:00 - 12:00 | Chippewa Bay Preserve, 149 New Road, Hammond, NY, 13646, United States
Join us for a hands-on conservation effort at Chippewa Bay Preserve! On May 19 from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM, TILT is hosting a Yellow Iris Pull to help protect the preserve’s wetlands from invasive species.
Yellow Iris may look pretty, but it spreads aggressively and can crowd out native plants that wildlife depend on. Volunteers will work together to carefully remove this invasive plant from wetland areas, helping restore the natural balance of the ecosystem.
Come ready to get a little muddy, learn about invasive species management, and make a direct impact on the health of Chippewa Bay Preserve. Please wear muck boots or rain boots.
Please register by clicking the link, or by calling the TILT office at 315-686-5345, or emailing dmcilrath@tilandtrust.org.

Birds of a Feather Trek
2026-05-23 10:00 - 12:00 | Otter Creek Preserve
Join us for a unique outdoor adventure at Otter Creek Preserve! Guided by local birding expert Dan Miller, you’ll learn to spot and identify the area’s feathered residents, from songbirds to waterfowl. This experience is perfect for nature enthusiasts and families who want to explore the Preserve in a fun and educational way.
Please click the link to register or call the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

TILT’s and OBI’s Cherry Island Shoreline Cleanup
2026-06-01 10:00 - 14:00
Join the Thousand Islands Land Trust and Ontario Bays Initiative for a Cherry Island shoreline cleanup in Chaumont Bay! Help clean up debris, trash, and other items to prevent pollution and protect the watershed for future generations. Be sure to wear your trusty work attire and remember to bring gloves if you have them. Together we can make a local impact with global significance! Please register ahead so we can arrange boat transportation.
Address for the ramp/parking lot: 23296 County Road 59, Dexter NY 13634
A rain date is scheduled for Wednesday, June 3rd.
There is currently a waitlist for this trek. To be added to the waitlist, please email Delaney and dmcilrath@tilandtrust.org, or call the TILT Office at 315-686-5345.

Edward & Marlene Schmeer Preserve Premiere Trek
2026-06-05 15:30 - 17:00 | Edward & Marlene Schmeer Preserve, Cape Vincent
Join TILT staff for a guided hike through the brand-new Edward and Marlene Schmeer Preserve in Cape Vincent. This introductory trek offers a first look at the landscape, wildlife, and future possibilities of the Preserve while sharing the story behind its conservation. It’s a great chance to get to know the trails, ask questions, and experience the property.
Address: 787 Schmeer Road, Cape Vincent
Please register by clicking the link or by calling the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Annual Zenda Community Picnic & Volunteer Recognition
2026-06-12 17:30 - 19:30 | Zenda Farms Preserve
Bring your family and friends to celebrate conservation at the Thousand Islands Land Trust’s (TILT) annual Community Picnic! This kickoff to summer honors open space, volunteerism and community spirit. Enjoy fascinating and fun exhibits from TILT’s conservation and community partners, showcasing environmental, cultural and community organizations from across the Thousand Islands region. Take a stroll down memory lane with our timeless antique tractor display, relive the joys of childhood with games, activities, a petting zoo, and pony rides, and let live music set the perfect summertime vibe. Classic picnic fare will include hotdogs, hamburgers, salads, and desserts and ice-cold drinks will be served to wash it all down. Enjoy all this event has to offer and join us in recognizing and thanking our incredible volunteers who make TILT’s work possible.
Volunteers attend free of charge as a thank you for their dedication and hard work!

Online ticket sales are now closed, but we’d still love to see you there! Tickets will be available for purchase at the door on the day of the event.

TILT Discovery Center Grand Opening
2026-06-18 15:30 - 18:00
Join us for the Grand Opening of the Discovery Center! Explore hands-on, interactive exhibits designed to connect people of all ages with the land, water, and cultural heritage of the Thousand Islands region. Refreshments and light hors d’oeuvres will be provided.
Register by clicking the link or calling the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Exploring Cherry Island: History, Conservation, and Community Action
2026-06-28 14:00 - 15:30
Join us in partnership with the Ontario Bays Initiative (OBI), will host a presentation at the Lyme Heritage Center, located at 1848 Depot Street in Chaumont, NY 13622. The program will explore the history of the recently conserved Cherry Island, highlight other local conservation efforts, and share ways community members can get involved.
Register by clicking the link or calling the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Tales of the Toadstools KidsTrek
2026-06-30 10:00 - 12:00 | Crooked Creek Preserve
Join TILT for a magical story-based hike through the Crooked Creek Preserve! On this KidsTrek, we’ll follow an enchanting trail filled with tales of forest creatures and curious toadstools while exploring the wonders of the outdoors. Along the way, we’ll discover mosses, fungi, and local wildlife, learning about the important roles they play in our ecosystem. Perfect for young explorers with a love of stories and nature!
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
This Trek is now full. To be added to the waitlist, please call Community Engagement Coordinator, Delaney, at 315-686-5345.

Mushrooms & Mosses Trek
2026-07-07 10:00 - 12:00 | Crooked Creek Preserve
The Thousand Islands is home to numerous species of mushrooms, mosses, and lichens. Lead by Jean Fahey, President of the Central New York Mycological Society, this walk will take place on TILT’s beautiful Macsherry Trail, located on the Crooked Creek Preserve in Hammond. Embark on the perfect outing while learning about the numerous native mushrooms, mosses, and lichens along the trail. Discover how these species adapt to the cold northern climate and why they’re essential to the health of the land.
Adults only please.
Please note: harvesting mushrooms is prohibited on all TILT Preserves.
Please register by clicking the link, or call the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

TILT and ACLC’s Annual Citizen Science Loon Census
2026-07-18 08:00 - 09:00 | Location of Choice
Calling all nature enthusiasts and loon lovers! Here’s your chance to make a real impact on local wildlife conservation — volunteer with TILT and the ACLC to help count the local common loon population as part of the NY Annual Loon Census! This exciting, hands-on citizen science opportunity lets you contribute to vital research on loon populations across northern New York. By participating, you’ll help track population trends and support management efforts that ensure the survival of these iconic birds. Every count matters as we work together to protect these fascinating creatures and their habitats!
Please register to volunteer in advance with the TILT office so that we may send you the necessary forms for reporting.
Please register by clicking the link, or by calling the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Annual Summer Gathering, Oak Lodge, Wellesley Island
2026-07-18 18:00 - 21:00
Join us as we celebrate conservation in the Thousand Islands! Spend an evening at Oak Lodge on Wellesley Island, celebrating the incredible work we’ve done together while overlooking a spectacular view of the River, and enjoying cocktails and gourmet hors d’oeuvres. This special night will feature updates on TILT’s latest conservation initiatives and our exciting goals for the future—ensuring the continued stewardship of the Thousand Islands, the A2A Wildway, and the greater Atlantic Flyway. It’s a perfect opportunity to reconnect with old friends, meet new ones, and be part of something truly meaningful.
Address: 45496 Landon Road Wellesley Island NY, 13640.
Register and pay by clicking here, or calling the TILT office to process payment over the phone at 315-686-5345.

Grindstone Island Mule Trek
2026-07-23 09:00 - 15:30 | Grindstone Island
Join us for TILT’s legendary tour aboard motorized “mules”. Explore the 4th largest island in the Thousand Islands and dive into its rich cultural and natural history – to include the very place TILT was founded!
*This trek is reserved for TILT supporters and has limited space. To give as many members as possible a chance to participate, registration is limited per household. If you’d like to become a member and join us on the trek, call the office at 315-686-5345 or visit the Ways to Give page on the TILT website to contribute.
This Trek is now full. To be added to the waitlist, please contact Community Engagement Coordinator, Delaney, by calling the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Ichthyologist for a Day KidsTrek
2026-08-05 09:00 - 11:00 | Governors Island
Join TILT, Dr. John Farrell and the TIBS crew for the 12th annual “Fish Scientists for a Day” and learn what it takes to be a fish scientist! Enjoy a boat ride and afternoon on Governors Island while meeting some new aquatic friends that live in the St Lawrence. There’s something for everyone: see baby muskies in the lab, learn to use a microscope, and even cast your line off the docks!
This KidsTrek is now full. To be added to the waitlist please call the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Annual Birkhead Lecture
2026-08-07 10:00 - 11:30 | Zenda Farms Preserve
Join TILT in welcoming Alex Warcola of Warcola Apiaries as he joins us this year at the Zenda Farms Preserve for a lecture on local pollinators and the making of honey on TILT Preserves. The annual Birkhead Lecture is made possible by the generosity of Guthrie and Louise Birkhead and is free to the public. After the lecture, there is an opportunity for questions and light refreshments.
Please register by clicking the link, or calling the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Common Tern Nesting Grid Removal
2026-08-11 08:30 - 11:00 | Eagle Wing Shoals & Tidd Island
The Thousand Islands Land Trust (TILT) and conservation partner Save The River need volunteers to help dismantle the gull exclusion grid on Eagle Wing Shoals and Tidd Island. Help make a difference for wildlife and have some fun out on the River too. Please meet at the TILT office at 8:30 am. Work gloves are recommended and lunch will be provided.
This event is weather dependent – we will call registered participants to confirm the date.
Please register by clicking the link, or calling the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Dig with Doug Experience
2026-08-14 09:00 - 15:00 | Carleton Island, Cape Vincent
Come get your hands dirty at the “Dig with Doug” TILTrek on Carleton Island. Along with professor Douglas J. Pippin from SUNY Oswego, you will perform an actual archaeological dig at the historic Fort Haldimand. Whether you’re looking to expand your knowledge of Fort Haldimand and the Revolutionary War or the Thousand Islands as a whole, this is guaranteed to be an exciting adventure and opportunity to uncover history with your own hands. Lunch and transportation are provided. Number of participants is limited.
This event requires a paid ticket in advance, with proceeds directly supporting conservation efforts in the Thousand Islands.
Please click the link for registration and payment information, or call the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Islander Major Donor Appreciation
2026-08-20 17:30 - 19:30
Join us for an evening of cocktails and hors d’ouevres as we raise a glass to you, our Islanders, Guardians, Friends, and Protectors of the Land, whose dedication and love for this place continue to make our work possible. This event will be generously hosted by Lauran & Dan Throop at their Windward Cliffs home in Clayton.
Kindly RSVP by Friday, August 14, by calling the TILT Office at 315-686-5345.
Please note: The Islander Major Donor Appreciation event is held for TILT members who contribute at the Islander level of $1,000 or more annually. If you are interested in joining this circle of supporters, we would be grateful for your consideration. Your support helps protect the special places, wildlife, and landscapes that make the Thousand Islands so extraordinary.

Chaumont Bay Conservation Update and Regional Initiatives
2026-08-31 16:30 - 18:30
Join us in partnership with the Ontario Bays Initiative (OBI), will host an informational presentation at Sally Port View highlighting recent conservation efforts in Chaumont Bay and the surrounding region. Guests will have the opportunity to learn more about ongoing initiatives, connect with members of the TILT and OBI teams, and ask questions. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase. Admission is free, though registering on the TILT website is recommended.
Register by clicking the link or calling the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Jelly Making Experience
2026-09-10 09:30 - 15:00 | Zenda Farms Preserve
Learn the art of grape jelly making from expert jelly-maker Fred Schmitt in this hands-on experience rooted in land stewardship and local food traditions. In collaboration with the Thousand Islands Arts Center, the Thousand Islands Land Trust invites participants to Zenda Farms Preserve to harvest grapes grown on conserved land and transform them into homemade grape jelly.
This workshop highlights how protected landscapes like Zenda Farms support sustainable agriculture, local food systems, and community connections to the land. Participants will gather their own grapes, learn the jelly-making process step by step, and leave with a deeper appreciation for how conservation helps preserve both working landscapes and traditional skills.
Registration and payment will take place through the Thousand Islands Arts Center. Please visit their website for details and to sign up.

TILT’s and IRLC’s Lake Kayak Trek
2026-09-26 09:00 - 12:30
Join TILT and the IRLC for a group kayak. Paddle through calm waters as our naturalists point out local wildlife and share stories about the ecology and history of the area. As the leaves start to change, this is a great chance to connect with nature, enjoy breathtaking views, and learn about the rich habitats that make this place so special. Bring your sense of adventure, and leave ready to appreciate the lake from a whole new perspective! Equipment is provided. Space is limited.
Location for the kayak trek: Millsite Lake in Redwood and we will all meet at the boat launch located at 29410 Cottage Hill Road, Redwood NY 13679. Thank you for your support!
Please click the link to register, or by calling the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Fall Stewardship Day
2026-10-02 09:30 - 13:00 | Potters Beach Preserve
Roll up your sleeves with the TILT Team at Potters Beach Preserve on Grindstone Island for a day of hands-on conservation. Volunteers will clean the shoreline to help care for the land and water we love, keeping the preserve healthy following the busy summer season. Lunch is provided by TILT as a token of our appreciation. Space is limited for transportation, so reserve your spot today!
Register by clicking the link, or by calling the TILT office at 315-686-5345.

Annual Halloween Hike
2026-10-24 11:00 - 13:00
Halloween and nature share a rich and interconnected history that continues to inspire traditions, celebrations, and cultural practices to this day. Prepare for an unforgettable experience as you explore the spookified Zenda Trail Spur with friends and family. Following the hike, discover partner exhibits displaying native and exotic reptiles, play Halloween-themed games, get your face-painted and more! Whether you’re strolling through in costume or slithering alongside our reptilian friends, this adventure promises thrills for all ages. All participants are encouraged to wear your Halloween costumes. And just like tradition, expect some tricks and some treats on this special hike!
Please register by clicking the link, or by calling the TILT office at 315-686-5345.
