Blazing Trails
This month of November Otsego Land Trust bids farewell to two well-known and dedicated staff members. “Marcie and May have been the friendly face of Otsego Land Trust, meeting with property owners, hosting special events, and devoting their considerable skills to spreading the message of land conservation,” said Executive Director Gregory Farmer.
Marcie Foster
A lifelong Cooperstown resident, joined Otsego Land Trust in 2009 and has most recently served as Director of Public Lands and Partnerships. Marcie’s long, productive tenure has helped to keep the organization focused and on track as the world continues to change.
“After 13 years at Otsego Land Trust, I’m moving on to a new chapter to explore and pursue other adventures,” says Foster. “I plan to stay in Cooperstown, help my husband with the bike shop, go on adventures with my daughter, and pursue interests that have been put on the back burner for many years.”
May Leinhart
May came to Otsego Land Trust in 2019 to help with documentation and monitoring of the 111 private properties that are protected under conservation easements. As the Conservation Easement Manager, Leinhart has logged countless miles throughout the region in all kinds of weather.
“I have enjoyed every minute of my time out crisscrossing this area’s hills and valleys, exploring hidden corners, chatting in friendly kitchens, and hearing landowners’ hopes, dreams and plans for their land,” says Leinhart. “This job has inspired a deep affection for our fields, forests, and the people who steward them. My hope is now to continue advancing local land conservation as a community member and in other professional realms.”
Both Foster and Leinhart hope to remain connected with the many staff, board members, landowners, and partners whom they have worked with over time. Both are scheduled to leave their positions in November and plan to continue supporting the valuable work of Otsego Land Trust.
Foster’s involvement with Otsego Land Trust began soon after she graduated from SUNY New Paltz. “I’ll be forever grateful to Otsego Land Trust for investing in me fresh out of college, first as a volunteer, and eventually guiding my professional growth in the land management and conservation field. I am proud to have been a part of so many conservation projects that will ensure that the scenic, ecological, and agricultural landscapes that I have treasured my entire life will remain protected for my daughter and future generations. I look forward to continuing to hike and enjoy Otsego Land Trust’s Blueway properties that provide access to wonderful natural places.”
In contrast, Leinhart came to Cooperstown after working for land trusts in other areas. “I moved to this region after spending time in rapidly suburbanizing areas of the Southeast and West,” she says. “I know that what we have here is special, and doesn’t happen without intention and foresight. I’ve been honored to work with and learn from the landowners, board and staff members who have helped protect this beautiful region — for now and for the future.”
The Board of Directors at their October meeting were visibly saddened to hear that Otsego Land Trust would be losing two such talented people. In a unanimous resolution the nine-member board chose to recognize and applaud the skills and dedication of Marcie Foster and May Leinhart in advancing the mission and goals of Otsego Land Trust. On behalf of the entire community, we give them our deepest thanks and wish them both well as they advance in their careers.