Sturgeon Bay, WI — Door County Land Trust announces the departure of executive director Tom Clay who has led the non-profit conservation organization over the past five years. During his tenure, Door County Land Trust has expanded its land protection and habitat restoration efforts significantly.
Clay’s leadership of the organization over the past five years has led to remarkable conservation successes. In the past five years alone, Door County Land Trust protected an additional 1,100 acres, bringing its total habitat protected to 8,800 acres. Additionally, the Land Trust added several new staff positions to support additional land protection and habitat restoration efforts. Since Clay’s arrival, the Land Trust increased both its annual support and its Stewardship Endowment Fund thanks to strong support from donors and the community at large.
Clay brought unparalleled enthusiasm for birds and conservation to his work. Over the past five years, Door County Land Trust protected many places beloved by the community, including Pebble Beach, Gibraltar-Ephraim Swamp Natural Area, Chambers Island Nature Preserve, the first-ever land acquisition at Stony Creek in Southern Door, and many other conservation projects.
Clay said, “Living in Door County and working for Door County Land Trust has been an absolute dream come true. As Lisa and I move closer to our children, we will take away memories of breathtaking landscapes and wonderful people. Door County Land Trust is a strong, vibrant organization and is positioned to thrive for many years to come.”
Clay and his wife Lisa intend to move closer to family in Illinois. He will transition out of the office until his final departure on March 11. Clay intends to continue working in the field of conservation.
Door County Land Trust’s Board President Donna Hake said, “Tom’s commitment and ability to tell the story of conservation in Door County has inspired members and the community at large. On behalf of the board and staff, I extend our deepest thanks and appreciation to Tom for his service to the Land Trust and wish him and Lisa well.”
The Land Trust’s leadership staff and board of directors are well positioned to continue land protection efforts throughout the transition of leadership. Land protection projects currently underway will not be affected by Clay’s departure.
