Board Members & Staff

Calder Schweitzer

Calder began working for TIWLT in 2019 as a Field Biologist, and has now moved into the position of Executive Director. He holds a B.Sc. in Wildlife Biology and Conservation from the University of Guelph, which he attended as a McCall MacBain Loran Scholar. Calder has formerly volunteered for the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society and Western Australia's Department of Conservation, Biodiversity, and Attractions.

Email: calder@tiwlt.ca

Don Ross

Don has a Biology Degree from Western University and started his career as Chief Park Naturalist at Point Pelee National Park. When he moved to the Thousand Islands he found home. He was partner in Dave Jones Sports and Executive Director of the Frontenac Arch Biosphere. He is a founding member of TIWLT, helped write the nomination papers for the UNESCO Frontenac Arch Biosphere and with Dave Warner, facilitated the transfer of properties to the National Park.

Email: don@tiwlt.ca

Ed Lowans

Ed led sustainable planning and design teams in North America, South America and Asia. He represented Canada working on LEED® and historic projects. He is an inventor, author and speaker. Ed is an adjunct professor of sustainable planning, design, architecture, health and building science. When not saving the environment he is enjoying the youngest and the oldest members of the clan. Ed spent his 70 summers on The River with antique boats.

John Ambrose

John has a Master’s degree (forest management) from MacDonald College (McGill University). His career in environmental and resource management has taken him on assignments to 35 countries throughout Africa, Asia and Eastern Europe with CIDA, the World Bank and the private sector.

Marnie Ross

Marnie was a Reading Recovery teacher and since retiring has found her passion in preserving nature and helping others achieve their conservation dreams. Helping others create a legacy is the most rewarding work. Marnie and Don were the recipients of the Ontario Land Trust Alliance Vision Award in 2010.

Email: marnie@tiwlt.ca

Mary Jane Lamb

Mary Jane was the graphic designer for St. Lawrence Islands National Park. She also bred and raced horses at Woodbine, including Leggolam, Mackenzie Delta and the amazing Crown Attorney. Mary Jane lives on her horse farm with her journalist daughter Kate and husband Tony. She is always conscious of involving the farming community.

Dave Warner

Dave was Park Superintendent of St. Lawrence Islands National Park. He is a founding member of the Canadian Thousand Islands Heritage Conservancy, which later became TIWLT. He helped write the nomination papers for the Frontenac Arch Biosphere and continues to work diligently to help TIWLT and his neighbours.

Vicki Leakey

Vicki joined the board in Spring 2020 and lives adjacent to one of the Trust properties on Deer Ridge Drive. Vicki brings over 30 years experience in accounting and financial reporting for various public sector organizations. As a CGA, CPA she brings her professional experience to many community organizations while serving as a volunteer in TLTI and the Town of Gananoque.

Shaun Thompson

Shaun is a retired MNR Biologist and author of protocols for Species at Risk. Shaun continues making Ontario nature thrive in his volunteering work with numerous groups. He is a tireless volunteer for TIWLT.

Robert Burtch

Robert recently retired from a 30 year elementary teaching career. He has a passion for all things outdoorsy including gardening, hiking, kayaking, swimming and birding. His love of the natural world as well as local history makes his involvement with TIWLT a perfect fit. He is looking forward to being able to share his love of nature and history with the wider community.

Dave Paul

Dave brings TIWLT learnings from a grateful career in economic development with both the Province and his hometown Brockville. The experience with investment attraction, securing project financing and fostering business relationships to shepherd growth and prosperity represent the activities of his discipline.
Dave's present commitment is grounded in environmental stewardship and advocacy for the mission of this great watershed.