The Upper Saranac Foundation (USF) Board of Directors has announced the promotion of Guy Middleton to the role of executive director, effective Jan. 1.

Middleton, who has served as USF’s lake manager since 2001, will now lead all aspects of the Foundation’s operations. This marks the introduction of the executive director role at USF, a pivotal step in the organization’s growth and mission to protect the Upper Saranac watershed.

“Guy Middleton has been the backbone of USF’s programs for well over two decades,” said USF Board President Tom Swayne. “Most recently, he successfully managed the complex renovation of the Bartlett Carry Dam, ensuring its long-term safety and resilience. His passion for protecting the Upper Saranac watershed, combined with his exceptional leadership and organizational skills, makes him the perfect candidate to guide the USF into this next chapter as our first executive director.”

Since 2001, as lake manager, Middleton has played a vital role in managing invasive species, conducting water monitoring programs and spearheading community education initiatives. Over his 23 years of service, he has become widely recognized across New York State and nationally for his expertise in aquatic invasive species management and lake ecology.

Middleton’s extensive background includes degrees in environmental science, land use planning and wilderness leadership from North Country Community College and the State University of New York (SUNY) at Plattsburgh. He has also worked with the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) and Northwood School, further enriching his knowledge and dedication to environmental stewardship.

“Our lakes and communities face increasing challenges from water quality issues, invasive species, shoreline degradation and other ecological threats,” Middleton said. “The impacts of these challenges are far-reaching. My focus remains on exploring and implementing innovative approaches to mitigate these issues and preserve our freshwater resources for generations to come.”

“Guy Middleton’s appointment as executive director of the USF is clearly the right choice at the right time for this role,” said Ross Whaley, a member of the USF Board of Directors who is past president of the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry and former chair of the state Adirondack Park Agency. “He is passionate about protecting Upper Saranac Lake and the larger Adirondack watershed, demonstrating persistence in his work, and patience with others and institutions. He exemplifies the effectiveness of intelligence, hard work and civility.”

“On behalf of the entire Paul Smith’s College community, we extend our warmest congratulations to Guy Middleton on his appointment as executive director of the Upper Saranac Foundation,” said Zoe Smith, vice president of Strategic Initiatives at Paul Smith’s College (PSC). “For decades, PSC’s Adirondack Watershed Institute has had the privilege of collaborating closely with USF and working alongside Guy in his tireless efforts to protect the Upper Saranac watershed. We are confident that under his leadership, USF will continue to thrive.”

Middleton is deeply connected to the Adirondack community. He grew up in Lake George, has been a longtime resident of the Tri-Lakes area and has spent countless days on the water. Over the years, Middleton has developed a deep understanding of the importance of science in addressing environmental issues. An avid outdoorsman and expert skier, he is well known for his years as a ski coach at the New York Ski Education Foundation and Northwood School. He and his partner, Cammy, split their time between Lake Placid and their family home on Upper Saranac Lake.

The Upper Saranac Foundation is a nonprofit, science-guided organization seeking to preserve, enhance and protect the natural beauty, environmental quality and recreational enjoyment of the Upper Saranac Lake watershed through selective support of projects related to overall water quality. The Foundation is funded through tax-deductible donations. Activities include aquatic invasive species prevention and management, lake dam maintenance, monitoring water quality and promoting environmental awareness. To learn more, visit usfoundation.net.