The Delaware Highlands Conservancy has hired two new staff members: Administrative Coordinator Jason Zarnowski and Land Protection Coordinator Susan LaCroix.
Jason is a graduate of Keystone College with a BS in Environmental Resource Management and a minor in Biology. He has worked with land management consulting firms and the National Park Service’s Northeast Exotic Plant Management Team helping to manage invasive species on National Park Service Land throughout the Northeastern United States before joining the Conservancy in June of 2016. As a life-long resident of Northeastern Pennsylvania, Jason is deeply committed to protecting the environment through sustainable development and responsible use of land so future generations can be inspired by the same natural beauty that fueled his interest in land protection and the environment. Jason will be assisting in the day to day operation of the organization and with fundraising and development.
Susan graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in Political Science and Environmental Studies. After graduating, she interned at Chikaming Open Lands in Lakeside, MI and grew into the Land Protection Specialist position, working with the ED to lead the Land Protection and Stewardship programs for the organization. Intrigued by the work being done on the west coast, Susan joined Forterra in Seattle in 2013 where she was able to hone in on Land Protection. For three years Susan conserved land for endangered species habitat and connectivity for safe passage via the wildlife bridges between the north and south Cascade mountains. She also worked with an exciting coalition passionate about a beautiful river valley to conserve land in conjunction with partners’ investment in the recreational improvements for the area. As Land Protection Coordinator with DHC, Susan will be working with landowners to place land protection agreements on their property.