Jeff Tonole of Ithaca, Tompkins County, NY

What is your volunteer role at the Finger Lakes Land Trust?  What kinds of work do you do here?

I am a writer for the FLLT’s quarterly newsletter, The Land Steward.

How long have you been involved as a volunteer?

I’ve been writing articles for The Land Steward since 2009.

Why do you volunteer?

I’ve been a member of the FLLT since 2001, but wanted to do more to help the organization’s mission. As a professional freelance writer, I thought that contributing my writing and editing skills to the newsletter was the best way for me to get more actively involved.

What’s your favorite FLLT activity and/or preserve, and why?

FLLT has many wonderful and varied preserves, but my two favorites are Logan Hill and Lick Brook. I enjoy the diversity of the flora and fauna at Logan Hill, while exploring Lick Brook has long been a go-to family hike.

Anything else you want to add?

Writing articles for The Land Steward has been mutually beneficial—I get to keep up with the FLLT’s activities, visit many of its preserves and other conserved land, and talk with some of the people who are generously helping to protect the spectacular landscapes we have in the Finger Lakes. It’s a privilege to be a part of it.