EMales

Opening the Door to Discovery

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Thanks to the generosity of the Klindt Family, young explorers visiting Dexter Free Library now have even more opportunities to discover the outdoors through hands-on learning and adventure.

The Klindt Family recently sponsored a Tug Hill Explorer Birding Backpack and Tracking Backpack for the library, providing children and families with free access to tools and resources that help them connect with nature. Each backpack is filled with books, field guides, and interactive equipment designed to encourage exploration of the wildlife and natural habitats found throughout the Tug Hill region.

Whether identifying birds by sight and sound, searching for animal tracks, or learning about local ecosystems, these backpacks make outdoor discovery accessible, educational, and fun for all ages. Families can borrow the backpacks just like a library book and explore at their own pace in local parks, trails, backyards, and other outdoor spaces.

For Sandy Young Klindt, the goal is simple: inspire curiosity and a love of nature in the next generation.

“If one child uses the backpack and discovers this is something they like, then it is a success” said Klindt.

The Tug Hill Explorer Backpack Program helps remove barriers to outdoor learning by providing families with the resources they need to explore nature close to home without having to purchase their own supplies and tools. By fostering curiosity, observation, and hands-on experiences, the program encourages a deeper appreciation for wildlife and the landscapes that make the Tug Hill region unique.

Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust is grateful to the Klindt Family for supporting outdoor education and helping create opportunities for local children and families to experience the wonders of nature right in their own backyard.

If you or your business would like to sponsor a backpack for a local library, or if your library would like to request a program, please contact us at 315-779-8240.

Libraries participating include

Jefferson County: Adams, Adams Center, Black River,Carthage, Dexter, Ellisburg, Rodman and Watertown

Oswego County: Central Square, Mexico,  Orwell, Parish, Pulaski, Sandy Creek and Williamstown

Lewis County: Constableville, Lowville, Lyons Falls, Martinsburg, Osceola, Port Leyden, West Leyden

Oneida & Herkimer Counties: Barneveld, Boonville, Camden, Holland Patent, Poland, Prospect, Remsen, Rome, Turin, Westernville, Woodgate

A Season of Stewardship

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This season, our partners at SLELO PRISM are offering a wide range of opportunities for everyone to get involved in protecting the region’s lands and waters. From virtual learning sessions to field-based conservation work, these programs are designed to build practical skills while fostering a deeper connection to local ecosystems.

The Land and Water Protectors programs begin in early June with public kickoff webinars, followed by a series of field sessions throughout the summer and into the fall. Participants will have the opportunity to learn how to survey for forest pests, identify and manage terrestrial invasive plants, and apply stewardship practices in real-world settings. These sessions are open to all experience levels and provide a meaningful entry point into hands-on conservation work.

Additional programming includes the Aquatic Invasive Species Learning Experience (AISLE), which combines webinar learning, workshops, and on-the-water paddles to help participants better understand and respond to aquatic invasive species across the region. Community members are also invited to take part in the Lakeview WMA Bioblitz, where volunteers will document local biodiversity using the iNaturalist app in a collaborative, field-based event designed for all ages and experience levels.

The season continues with a series of Water Chestnut Pulls throughout the summer, offering volunteers a chance to directly support aquatic habitat restoration efforts. These events bring partners together on the water to help remove invasive plants and improve conditions for native species.

From guided learning to hands-on restoration, each of these opportunities offers a chance to get involved, learn something new, and contribute to the long-term health of the region’s lands and waters.

For a full list of events and registration details, participants are encouraged to explore SLELO PRISM’s event listings and sign up to join in the work ahead: www.sleloinvasives.org/events

Tug Hill Photo Contest Now Closed

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The Annual Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust Calendar Photo Contest has officially come to a close. Thank you to all of the talented photographers who shared their work with us and helped capture the beauty, character, and spirit of the Tug Hill region.

Each submission offered a unique perspective from sweeping seasonal landscapes to quiet moments in nature and we are incredibly grateful for the time, creativity, and care that went into every photo. Your contributions make it possible for us to tell the story of Tug Hill in a meaningful and inspiring way.

We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to the sponsors who are making the production of the 2027 calendar possible:
Coughlin
Bob & Carol Keller
GYMO
The Enchanted Edible Forest at Cross Island Farms
RBC Wealth Management
Their support brings the calendar to life and allows even more people to experience the beauty of Tug Hill.

If you are interested in joining this group of sponsors, please reach out to Emily Males at [email protected] for more information.

Thank you again to everyone who participated. We can’t wait to share the final calendar with you.

Exploring the Path to Conservation

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Rachel Rosner’s path to conservation didn’t begin in a classroom it began outdoors, exploring the woods, waterways, and winter landscapes of New York’s North Country.

Childhood winters in the North Country helped spark Rachel’s lifelong connection to the outdoors

Raised between Carthage and Lake Placid, Rachel, grew up immersed in the natural world. From an early age, she and her brother spent their days roaming the land behind their home near Pleasant Lake, climbing steep embankments, searching for tadpoles and salamanders in muddy pools, and building elaborate snow forts during long winter days. These formative experiences instilled in her a deep appreciation for the land and a lasting connection to place.

Rachel’s academic journey took her from Carthage schools to Northwood School in Lake Placid, and later to the University of Virginia, where she pursued a degree in chemical engineering with a minor in engineering business. While her path in engineering evolved over time, the experience shaped how she approaches complex challenges teaching her to think critically, work collaboratively, and develop creative solutions.

“Above all, I realized I love finding ways to make processes safer and healthier—for people and for the environment,” Rachel says.

That realization ultimately guided her toward a new goal: a future in environmental law. Rachel plans to attend law school beginning in fall 2026, with the intention of studying environmental and land use law and returning to the North Country to build her career.

Her passion for protecting natural resources is rooted in both her upbringing and her academic experience. Through engineering, she saw firsthand how deeply our daily lives depend on land, water, and natural materials. Combined with her lifelong connection to the outdoors, this understanding fuels her commitment to conservation.

“Without land, fresh water, and natural resources, there would be no products, no communities—no way forward,” she explains. “That’s why it’s so important to protect what we have.”

Since joining Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust as a land protection intern, Rachel has gained a deeper appreciation for the work that goes into conserving land and the people behind it.

“One thing that has really stood out to me is how deeply everyone here cares about preserving our lands for future generations,” she says. “It’s inspiring to be part of a team that works so hard and connects with others to expand that appreciation.”

Through her experience, Rachel has also come to see that land conservation is about more than protecting acres, it’s about people.

“Land trusts create opportunities for connection,” she says. “They bring people together, strengthen communities, and help ensure that future generations can experience the same sense of place that shaped me.”

As development pressures grow and open spaces become increasingly limited, Rachel believes the work of land trusts is more important than ever.

“It’s imperative that we protect land now,” she says, “so that we continue to have green spaces in the future.”

Rachel is excited to be part of the Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust team and looks forward to contributing to its mission both now and in the years ahead.

“I’m so grateful for this experience,” she says. “I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together.”

Annual Calendar Photo Contest Now Open

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The Annual Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust Calendar Photo Contest is officially underway! We invite photographers of all experience levels to help us showcase the beauty, character, and spirit of the Tug Hill region in our 2027 Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust Calendar.

Each year, the calendar highlights the landscapes and people that make Tug Hill such a special place. From sweeping winter scenes to quiet summer streams, we’re looking for images that reflect life on Tug Hill throughout all four seasons.

What to Submit

We are seeking photos taken within the Tug Hill region that capture:

  • Landscapes and forests

  • Wildlife and native plants

  • Farms, fields, and rural life

  • Streams, wetlands, and waterways

  • People enjoying or caring for the land

Photos from all seasons—winter, spring, summer, and fall—are encouraged, and we especially welcome seasonal variety.

Why Enter?

Winning photographs may be featured on the cover of the 2027 calendar, showcased as monthly images, or included as supporting photos throughout the calendar. In addition, submitted photos may be used in Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust publications and on social media, helping your work inspire an even wider audience.

How to Enter

  • Deadline: May 1, 2026

  • Photo limit: Up to 10 photos per photographer

  • Location: All photos must be taken in the Tug Hill region

When submitting, please name your files using the following format:
LastName_FirstName_Location_Description_MonthTaken

Email your photos directly to Communications & Marketing Director Emily Males at [email protected].

Large files may also be shared using WeTransfer (free transfers up to 2GB). If your files exceed this limit, you may send them in multiple batches or compress them before uploading.

We can’t wait to see Tug Hill through your lens.

Board Names Heidi Sourwine as Interim Executive Director

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Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust Board has named Heidi Sourwine as its Interim Executive Director, continuing her leadership with the organization as it carries forward its work to protect the forests, farms, wildlife habitat, and waterways that shape life on Tug Hill.

Sourwine previously served as Associate Director, where she worked closely with staff, board members, landowners, and partners across the region. With deep roots in the North Country and a strong commitment to community-based conservation, she steps into the interim role with a clear understanding of the land trust’s mission and the people who make the work possible.

Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust partners with landowners and communities across six counties in and around Northern New York to conserve working forests, farmland, wildlife habitat, and waterways through voluntary conservation and stewardship. These protected lands support clean water, wildlife, outdoor recreation, and local livelihoods, helping ensure the region remains healthy and resilient for generations to come.

Throughout her career, Sourwine has focused on environmental education, organizational development, and relationship-building—bringing people together around shared values and turning conservation goals into meaningful, on-the-ground action.

“Tug Hill is one of the most ecologically important and culturally rich landscapes in New York State,” Sourwine said. “I’m honored to continue working with an organization that protects not just land, but the experiences, livelihoods, and wildlife that depend on it.”

Board Chair Natalie Bogdanowicz emphasized Sourwine’s long-standing connection to the land trust. “Heidi brings the right mix of experience, heart, and organizational skill to lead,” she said. “Her understanding of both the mission and the day-to-day work of the organization makes her well suited to guide us forward.”

As Interim Executive Director, Sourwine will guide ongoing land protection and stewardship efforts, support partnerships with landowners and communities, and continue expanding opportunities for people to connect with conservation across the region.

“Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust exists because people care deeply about healthy land and water,” Sourwine added. “Our role is to help protect the special places that make this region home.”

Twilight Owl Prowl Series Welcomes New Sponsor

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We are proud to recognize The Enchanted Edible Forest at Cross Island Farms as the sponsor of this year’s Twilight Owl Prowl series at the Joseph A. Blake Wildlife Sanctuary. Their generous support makes it possible to offer these unique guided evening programs, inviting community members to experience the forest during one of its most magical time of the day.

Held at twilight, the Owl Prowls give participants the opportunity to explore the sanctuary as daylight fades and nocturnal wildlife becomes active. Attendees learn how owls and other nighttime animals are specially adapted to hunt, communicate, and thrive after dark. Along the way, participants listen for owl calls, observe signs of wildlife, and gain a deeper appreciation for the complex ecosystems that exist within the Tug Hill region.

Support from The Enchanted Edible Forest at Cross Island Farms reflects a shared commitment to environmental education, conservation, and connecting people with the natural world. By sponsoring the Twilight Owl Prowl series, they are helping create memorable, hands-on experiences that inspire curiosity, stewardship, and a lasting respect for local wildlife and wild places.

For more information and a full schedule of Twilight Owl Prowl dates, visit tughilltomorrowlandtrust.org/events

Community Survey

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We Want Your Input

There’s so much opportunity to conserve the special places of the Tug Hill region and your voice matters.

As we look ahead to the future of the Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust, we are inviting community members to share their perspectives through a short strategic planning survey. Your feedback will help guide our priorities and ensure our work reflects what matters most to the people who care about this region.

Since 1990, Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust has worked collaboratively with conservation and community organizations, private and public landowners, and engaged individuals to protect the wildlands, working forests, and farms of the Tug Hill region and surrounding areas. We are also committed to promoting appreciation of the region’s natural and cultural heritage—for present and future generations.

Now, as we begin developing our next strategic plan, your insights are essential.

Take the Survey

We invite you to take our 10-minute anonymous survey to share your thoughts about:

  • What you value most about the lands and waters of the Tug Hill region
  • The issues and challenges that concern you
  • The types of programs and initiatives that matter most to you
  • Your experiences with Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust lands and programs

There are no right or wrong answers, your perspective is timely, important, and greatly appreciated.

Who Should Participate?

We are seeking input from a wide range of voices, including:

  • Full-time and part-time residents
  • Visitors to the Tug Hill region
  • Anyone who cares about land conservation, outdoor recreation, and community well-being

Over the coming weeks, we’ll be gathering feedback from across the community. We encourage you to share the survey link with friends, neighbors, and others who have an interest in the future of Tug Hill’s lands and waters.

Thank You

Thank you for taking the time to participate and for caring about the Tug Hill region. Your input will play a vital role in shaping our work in the years ahead.

Peace Along the Independence River

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On a crisp fall Saturday in October, sunlight streamed through the tall trees along the Independence River as family and friends gathered to honor the life and legacy of David E. Ramsey. The dedication of the David E. Ramsey Independence River Public Conservation Area celebrated not only a beloved friend but also a true outdoorsman who found peace and beauty in the woods.

The property, generously donated by Bob and Carol Keller to Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust, holds deep meaning for all who knew Dave. Set in the Town of Greig, this forested preserve follows a trail that winds through the woods to the river’s edge, where the sounds of rushing water and birdsong fill the air. For Dave, 

this was a place of solace and reflection. “Dave found peace at this magnificent river and in these beckoning woods,” shared his wife, Sherry Ramsey. “He would be deeply honored to know that others will find the same solace and wonder in this setting that bears his name.”

Now open to the public, the David E. Ramsey Independence River Public Conservation Area offers a peaceful place for visitors to explore, reflect, and connect with nature. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing throughout the year. In winter, the preserve is a serene spot for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Future enhancements, including a trail expansion and interpretive kiosk, will further open this special place to the public. The land remains entirely forested, with habitat that supports trout and countless bird species.

For more information about the David E. Ramsey Public Conservation Area, visit tughilltomorrowlandtrust.org/explore/david-e-ramsey-independence-river-public-conservation-area.

Rolling Up Our Sleeves

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Earlier this week, Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust joined our partners at the St. Lawrence Eastern Lake Ontario Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (SLELO PRISM) at Montario Point in Lakeview Wildlife Management Area. Together, we rolled up our sleeves to remove invasive American lotus, a plant that is rapidly spreading across the shallow waters there.

While the lotus may look beautiful, it can quickly overwhelm wetlands and open water. Each seed pod can hold dozens of seeds, and those seeds can remain viable for years. Once established, the plants form thick mats that shade out native vegetation, reduce habitat for fish and wildlife, and limit opportunities for boating and fishing. By pulling pods before they drop their seeds, we’re helping slow the spread and protect this special place for both people and nature.

“It’s rewarding to see how a simple act like removing seed pods can make such a difference,” said Heidi Sourwine, Associate Director of Tug Hill Tomorrow Land Trust. “You realize you’re helping to protect the open water for fish, for paddling, and for the whole community that enjoys these wetlands.”

Why invasive prevention matters for Tug Hill

The spread of invasive species is one of the greatest threats to healthy ecosystems across New York State. On Tug Hill, the risks are particularly significant because the region remains one of the most ecologically intact places in the Northeast. Its core forests are unusually diverse and resilient, supporting a rich array of native plants and wildlife, while still having relatively few invasive species compared to other landscapes. Protecting that intactness is critical. Once invasives gain a foothold, they can quickly alter soil chemistry, disrupt water flow, outcompete native plants, and reduce the diversity that makes Tug Hill so unique.

By working on invasive removal in surrounding areas—wetlands, dunes, and nearshore habitats along Lake Ontario—we’re helping prevent the spread of species that could eventually reach the Plateau’s core forests. This proactive approach is central to the land trust’s mission: safeguarding land and water for the long term by addressing both current challenges and future risks.

How you can help

We’re excited to announce two upcoming restoration planting events with SLELO PRISM. These are rewarding opportunities to connect with nature, meet fellow conservation enthusiasts, and make a lasting impact—one plant at a time.

📅 Friday, October 24 | 9 AM – 2 PM
• Location: Deer Creek Marsh, South Rainbow Shores Road, Pulaski, NY (Google Map)
• Details: This site requires a 1-mile walk through sandy conditions (approximately 30 minutes each way). Plantings will occur within the dunes and riparian areas of Deer Creek.
✨ End times are tentative. Stay tuned for details on the second restoration event!

Saturday, October 25 | 10 AM – 3 PM
• Location: El Dorado Preserve, Grand Jean Road, Henderson, NY (Google Map)
• Details: This site requires a 10-15 minute walk on flat terrain. Plantings will occur in an open field with tall grass and in forested gaps.
✨ Registration is required to join (click to register).

Together, we can protect the wild and beautiful places that make Tug Hill and its surrounding region so special.