Wendy Cridland named Long Point Basin Land Trust Executive Director

The Long Point Basin Land Trust (LPBLT) recently named Wendy Cridland as its new executive director.

Ms. Cridland has over 30 years of conservation expertise, including nearly two decades with the Nature Conservancy of Canada as Senior Director of Conservation.

A press release from LPBLT said, “Her extensive experience in land protection, habitat stewardship, and building conservation partnerships will advance LPBLT’s mission.”

“Working at Long Point Basin Land Trust is like coming home for me,” Ms. Cridland said. “I am very excited to connect with local volunteers and supporters and to focus on protecting the incredible forests, wetlands, and grasslands that make this area so special.”

She envisions strengthening partnerships with local communities, enhancing outreach to inspire the next generation of conservation leaders, and advancing strategic land protection to address biodiversity loss and climate change.

“Together, we can amplify our efforts and ensure that treasured natural areas continue to thrive for the species who depend on them,” she shared.

Peter Carson, president of LPBLT’s Board of Directors, added, “We are excited to welcome Wendy as our new executive director. Her exceptional leadership in conservation, combined with her deep connection to this region, makes her the ideal person to guide the Land Trust into an exciting future of expanded impact.”

LPBLT extended its gratitude to Rick Levick, the outgoing executive director who recently retired, saying Mr. Levick played a pivotal role in growing the organization and expanding its portfolio of protected lands.

“With Wendy’s leadership and a shared commitment to conservation, LPBLT looks forward to continuing its vital work of protecting and restoring natural habitats, ensuring they thrive now and for generations to come,” the organization said.

LPBLT is a charitable non-government organization founded in 1996 with a mission to protect and restore functioning ecosystems in the central Carolinian Region. This is accomplished through land ownership, land management, and nature stewardship. LPBLT currently protects 17 nature reserves, totalling 1,267 acres (513 hectares).

Originally printed in The Good News, January 2025.