Champlain Area Trails (CATS), an accredited land trust founded in 2009, is dedicated to creating and maintaining trails, protecting land, and connecting people with nature to promote economic vitality in New York’s Champlain Valley. Today, CATS is excited to announce the appointment of Peter Gernsheimer as its first Land Conservation Manager.

With over 15 years of experience in ecological preservation and land conservation, Gernsheimer is poised to make a significant impact at CATS. He previously served as a program manager with the Student Conservation Association, where he was instrumental in connecting youth with career opportunities in the conservation field. His diverse background includes contributions to impactful projects across the U.S., such as salmon habitat recovery in Seattle and the reintroduction of the American chestnut in Pennsylvania.

In his new role, Gernsheimer will focus on enhancing the organization’s land conservation efforts throughout the Champlain Valley, with a special emphasis on protecting the Split Rock Wildway—a vital wildlife corridor.

“We are thrilled to welcome Peter to the CATS team,” said Arin Burdo, Executive Director of Champlain Area Trails. “His extensive knowledge of land conservation and his deep commitment to environmental stewardship will be invaluable as we embark on this new chapter for our organization.”

Under Gernsheimer’s expertise, CATS is set to build upon its impressive achievements in conservation, which include the creation and maintenance of over 100 miles of trails, the protection of more than 3,000 acres of land, and the facilitation of numerous hikes, outdoor education programs, and volunteer events that engage both year-round residents and visitors alike.

“I am honored to join the CATS team and contribute to their vital work of stewarding this beautiful landscape and protecting its ecological integrity. The Champlain Valley is a remarkable place, and I look forward to listening to and collaborating with the community to expand our land conservation efforts and preserve access to nature for future generations.”

Gernsheimer’s appointment arrives at a pivotal moment for CATS, which is experiencing a period of growth and development, including the recent hiring of a new Executive Director and the upcoming acquisition of Twin Valleys Outdoor Education Center. With Gernsheimer’s expertise and the renewed momentum within the organization, CATS is well-positioned to achieve significant strides in its mission to create a vibrant, sustainable, and nature-rich Champlain Valley.

The Land Conservation Manager position is supported by generous funding from individuals, the New York State Conservation Partnership Program (NYSCPP) and New York’s Environmental Protection Fund. The NYSCPP is administered by the Land Trust Alliance in coordination with the state Department of Environmental Conservation.