Kevin Thusius

Senior Director of Land Conservation Strategy

Kevin sets strategic direction for land acquisitions and conservation, oversees the Habitat Improvement Program, easements, and Alliance-owned preserves, and leads the Alliance’s advocacy efforts.

Ice Age Trail Alliance, Ice Age National Scenic Trail, Ice Age Trail, Senior Director of Land ConservationKevin began working for the Alliance in 2000 as the Eastern Field Coordinator. His commitment to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail and his passion for land conservation led to his role as Director of Land Conservation. Fast forward a few years, and he celebrated his 20th anniversary with the Alliance in 2021.

In 2022, he accepted the Senior Director of Land Conservation position. He is responsible for protecting land for the Ice Age Trail by working directly with landowners and collaborating with public and private partners. In addition, Kevin oversees the maintenance, monitoring, and management of Alliance-held real estate interests in collaboration with local, state, and national partners. He also leads the Alliance’s advocacy efforts for policies, practices, and plans with officials and agency partners at all levels of government.

Kevin traces his interest in the Trail back to his high school days when he used it to access his favorite hunting and fishing spots. He found the Trail again when he changed his focus from engineering and mathematics to a subject of greater interest, ornithology. Studying birds led him toward land protection – a complete way to protect them, other animals, and their habitats. Kevin relishes the linear greenspace of the Trail, knowing it provides sanctuary for diverse plant and animal populations. Importantly, this land will be available for future generations of hikers who head to the woods to hear the pileated woodpecker’s pounding or a warbler’s trill.

Outside the office, he enjoys time with his wife and two children, playing soccer, fishing, hunting, and vegetative management, otherwise known as chainsawing and burning.

Favorite Ice Age Trail Segment: Kevin relishes the opportunity to “work” on the Dells of the Eau Claire Segment while monitoring Alliance-owned properties.