The Land Trust recently completed an organizational restructuring that will allow us to expand our conservation efforts and recreation initiatives for years to come.

A major part of this transition is the retirement of Andy Prewett, who has been with the Land Trust since 2003. Andy was hired as the organization’s first Land Steward. He often jokes that he got the job because he was the only applicant who owned a pickup truck, but those who know Andy understand the real reason: his deep passion for conservation and stewardship.

When Andy joined the Land Trust, we protected just 2,400 acres of land and maintained 29 miles of trails. Today, the Land Trust manages more than 10,000 acres and over 100 miles of trails, and Andy has played a significant role in that growth. Over the years, he advanced to Land Manager, leading efforts to identify and protect important conservation lands, oversee property management, manage land stewardship staff and volunteers, and spearhead numerous recreation projects.

We are grateful for Andy’s 23 years of service and the lasting impact he has made on the Land Trust and our community. We will miss his daily leadership, but we wish him many happy years enjoying retirement and spending time with his family.

As we look toward the future, we are excited to welcome Brandon Moore as our new Land Management Director. Brandon brings more than 20 years of experience in land management and conservation throughout the region. His background includes managing farmland, woodlands, hunting properties, conservation funding, infrastructure projects, field crews, and environmentally sensitive landscapes. His expertise will help guide the Land Trust’s conservation efforts as we continue to grow our protected footprint.

As part of the restructuring, former Recreation Manager Kate Gribbin has stepped into a new role as Conservation Manager. In this position, Kate will focus on protecting and restoring the natural resources that make our preserves so special. Her work will include monitoring ecosystem health, leading habitat restoration projects, and managing invasive species across our properties.

We are also pleased to welcome Sam Balding as our new Recreation Manager. Sam joined the Land Trust in June and brings a background in forestry and land management. He has already embraced his new responsibilities and is eager to enhance visitor experiences, improve trail systems, and help develop future recreation projects on our preserves.

The Lands Team is rounded out by four dedicated Land Stewards: Tim Barnack, Robert Barger, plus Kat Robertson and Will Wiggins, who serve at Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve.

Together, these seven individuals work behind the scenes every day to keep our preserves protected, beautiful, and accessible. From building and maintaining trails to managing habitats, responding to storm damage, installing infrastructure, and caring for thousands of acres of conserved land, their efforts make our mission possible.

We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the many volunteers who have worked alongside the Lands Team over the years. Whether building trails, removing debris, installing structures, or assisting with stewardship projects, your support helps ensure that North Alabama’s special places remain protected and accessible for future generations.

As we celebrate Andy’s remarkable legacy and welcome new leadership, we are excited for the future of conservation and recreation at the Land Trust. Together, we will continue protecting the places you love while creating new opportunities for people to connect with the outdoors.