Land Trust Announces Departure of Long-Time Executive Director

After 20 years at the helm of the Door County Land Trust, Dan Burke informed the land trust’s board of directors that he will step down as executive director on Feb. 19 in order to be closer to family in Colorado.

Dan Burke. Photo by Althea Dotzour.

“I can’t begin to express how difficult this decision was for me,” explained Burke. “But the land trust has recently reached some important milestones which hold great opportunity for the future of the land trust. I felt that after 20 amazing years as executive director, now is the right time to look toward new opportunities, not only for me personally but for the land trust as well.”

Burke continued, “I could not have dreamed, nor asked, for a more rewarding way to have spent the last two decades than in protecting and caring for Door County’s exceptional lands and waters. I am absolutely honored and blessed to have been a part of the land trust’s incredible success over the years, including the protection of dozens of beautiful properties throughout Door County. The Grand View Scenic Overlook, as well as the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal, Three Springs, Bay Shore Blufflands, Kangaroo Lake, and Chambers Island nature preserves are just a few of the special places that will always mean so much to me.”

Land Trust Board President, Kathy Wolff echoed Burke’s assessment: “While it goes without saying that we are all going to really miss Dan and the leadership, professionalism and passion he provided, the land trust is a solid organization that is always looking forward. We are led by an experienced and dedicated staff and board, and the broad base of support provided by our many partners and supporters ensures that our future looks as bright as ever.”

The land trust’s Executive Committee will lead the effort in the coming months to recruit and hire a new executive director. “We will be searching for a leader who best exemplifies the values of the land trust and our community. In the interim, our staff and board will work closely together to continue our work. We will finish this transition healthy and stronger than ever,” Wolff explained.

For more information, visit doorcountylandtrust.org or call 920.746.1359.