2025 "Big Tent" Program Presenters
Friday Evening
Eli Knapp From Chicken Coop to Nature Snoop: How to see nature through the eyes of Aldo Leopold Eli J. Knapp, PhD, teaches in the Biology Department at Houghton University, in Houghton, NY. For fifteen years, he took students to East Africa where he directed the Houghton East Africa program. Like the birds that he loves, he continues to migrate with a flock each spring, taking students to various parts of the world as part of his annual Ornithology Course. He shares his three-acre yard with his lovely wife Linda, three (mostly) lovely children, and 109 species of birds. He has published two books with Torrey House Press, The Delightful Horror of Family Birding: Sharing Nature with the Next Generation (2018), Dead Serious: Wild Hope Amid the Sixth Extinction (2021). His third book, focusing on the importance of finding our place in nature, is titled: In the Crosswinds: Birds, Humans, and the Paradox of Place, hits bookstores on June 3rd |
Saturday Evening
Julie Lundgren Allegany's Natural Wonders Julie is an ecologist with the non-profit NY Natural Heritage Program. For the past 16 years she has worked under a partnership with NY State Parks conducting surveys of natural communities and advising on stewardship of parks’ natural areas. She has been a part of NatureServe’s international heritage network for 31 years. She has always had an interest in sharing insights into the wonders and beauty of nature. |
Leader Bios
Adriaansen, Kimberly - Buffalo, NY - Kimberly is keen to share with you the insights she has gained from over 20 years of professional experience in the field of environmental education and interpretation! She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences from SUNY Geneseo and Master of Professional Studies degree in Environmental Interpretation from SUNY ESF, in addition to a lifelong affinity for infusing art and nature into everyday life. Kimberly’s training and experience as a freelance artist blends with her innate reverence and education of the natural world to bring you a custom Nature Journaling & Mindfulness experience (that may very well become YOUR next lifelong hobby). Her professional background includes present and past employment with Tifft Nature Preserve/ Buffalo Society of Natural Sciences, National Audubon Society, New York State Parks, various environmental education nonprofits, plus a memorable adventure tracking lemurs through the rainforests of Madagascar.
Adriaansen, Michael – West Seneca, NY - Mike is an environmental educator with NYS Parks Niagara Region since 2023. He was also an environmental educator at Reinstein Woods for more than 15 years. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies from Binghamton University and a Master’s Degree in Environmental Interpretation from SUNY-ESF. A life-long naturalist that especially enjoys insects, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and outdoor skills. At the nature pilgrimage you may find him with binoculars, a bug net, or enjoying a Zweigle’s hot dog around a campfire.
Aiken, Wade – Bradford, NY - Newspaper photographer for 26 years, having shot just about everything you can imagine over that time. President of Twin Tier Camera Club, winner of numerous awards for photography.
Albert, Shannon – Cuba, NY - Shannon grew up in Salamanca, NY. She worked at Allegany State Park for thirteen years as a seasonal employee and environmental interpreter. She obtained a BS in Biology at Grove City College and a master’s degree from Saint Bonaventure University. She taught science at Cuba-Rushford Central School and began an annual 7th Grade Ecology Residence Camp, which took place at Camp Allegany. She also presented at several middle school and technology conferences. In the educational arena, Shannon has special interests in technology, robotics, and ecology and won several awards/nominations for her work. Now, in her retirement, she is an avid traveler and enjoys hiking, biking, kayaking, photography, and camping.
Anderson, Jonathan – Great Valley, NY - Jonathan is an environmental educator at Allegany State Park, dedicated to connecting people to nature through recreation. As a child, he camped in Allegany and attended Nature Pilgrimage, an experience that inspired his return as a presenter. He has taught snowboarding, skiing, surfing, kayaking, and led backpacking trips in locations like Fiji, New Zealand, Honduras, California, and New England. With a deep appreciation for the natural world, Jon encourages others to explore and appreciate the outdoors, believing that time in nature is essential for a fulfilling and healthy life.
Baird, Tim - Salamanca, NY - Tim is a retired science teacher who lives in Salamanca, NY. He has an interest in nature study and nature photography. Tim has been involved with the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage for many years. Meeting people with similar interests has been a highlight for Tim through his participation at the Pilgrimage. Nature observation is always a learning activity. He enjoys sharing his experiences in the natural world and learning from participants, many who have become true friends.
Baker, Conrad - Mount Morris, NY - Conrad is a professional naturalist and content creator. Tragically, since birth, he has been pathologically obsessed with insects. You can join him in shamelessly feeding his joyful obsession with the scientific and cultural splendor of insects at his two insect pinning and specimen preservation demonstrations. He camps, he hunts, he fishes, he traps, he veggie gardens, he plants native and he manages for pollinators and dragonflies at a beautiful country estate in the Genesee Valley of New York.
Braack, Craig – Andover, NY - Craig has been a serious nature photographer for over 30 and considers himself to be an advanced amateur. He is a Canon shooter currently, using their 6D Mark II body and lenses. In 1975, Craig graduated from Geneseo with a degree in Sociology. He is retired from Allegany County (NY) government where he served (38 years) as the County Historian, County Records Management Office, Museum Curator and some tourism promotion. He has travelled extensively - all 50 states, 6 provinces, 7 foreign countries, 40 of our 63 National Parks and many of the well-known nature photography locations in the nation.
Carra, Mark - West Valley, NY - Mark started as a wildlife educator in 1989 and has spoken to more than 800,000 people since then. He was the naturalist in residence for Beaver Meadow Audubon Center in North Java, NY and has worked as a representative and presenter for Animal Planet, National Geographic Channel, and Public Television and handled animals for many of their celebrities. His passion for learning and obsession to communicate what he has learned has kept him going all these years and loving the entire journey.
Carrier, Katy - West Valley, NY - Katy enjoys the outdoors and nature with her golden retriever in a variety of ways, including K9 therapy for 20 years. Also past involvement with search and rescue and emergency response. She has also taught orienteering with Women in the Outdoors and setting up map hike courses and fall meets at Erie County Forestry with the Buffalo Orienteering Club. She enjoys recreational orienteering in WNY, Pa. and Ohio. Recently retired allows more time for hiking, bicycling and Finger Lakes Trail maintenance.
Clarke, Kimberly – Bergen, NY - Kim has been a visitor to Allegany State Park since childhood and has attended the Nature Pilgrimage for 20+ years with her children and grandchildren. She is a retired childcare director and preschool teacher with a love of nature. She received a grant from the NYS Association for the Education of Young Children to create science kits to bring science and nature into the classroom. She loves getting children of all ages interested in exploring the outdoor world.
Contrino, Kathleen - Akron, NY – Kathy promotes the use of native plants in residential gardens in order to improve ecological diversity. She has been growing native plants and designing native plant gardens since 1997. Kathy is a Master Gardener (Orleans County), working on her certification in Medicinal plants and, as an avid birder, participates in the Feederwatch program with Cornell University. Currently Kathy is recreating the Great Lakes ecosystem on her 10 acres in Akron, NY where she participates in the open gardens section of the Gardens Buffalo Niagara. Kathy owns and operates the CW Native Plant Farm and CW Native Botanika
Corrigan, Peter - Buffalo, NY - Peter is an amateur naturalist who has been interested in birds and birding for over 30 years. He is a member of the Buffalo Audubon and Buffalo Ornithological Societies.
Corrigan, Teresa - Buffalo, NY - Teresa is avid hiker and enthusiastic amateur naturalist. She also loves yoga and teaches yoga at Power Yoga Buffalo and for Yogis in Service. She is thrilled to share both of her passions at the Pilgrimage.
Crafts, George - Manakin Sabot, VA - Dee Kysor and George Crafts have been presenting together stories from around the world and popular and original songs for thirty years. They have entertained children and adults in a number of settings, including schools, libraries, and camps. This is their third straight year sharing songs and stories at ANP.
Crandall, Diane – Erie, PA – Diane is a retired graphic design professor who taught design through beauty and proportion. She discovered that nature provides the perfect solutions for visual harmony, with mathematical principles like the Fibonacci sequence and the golden ratio found throughout the natural world. Diane is excited to share her insights on how these principles shape the world around us, offering a fresh perspective on the design of nature.
Crawford, Paul - Lockport, NY - Paul is a founding member of the Friends of Allegany State Park, a 501c3 Non-Profit Organization within Allegany State Park. The organization is in its twelfth year and tenth year as a Corporation. Paul has recently rejoined the ASP Historical Society where is is a lifetime member and board member. Please visit Paul’s YouTube Channel that has over 450 informational videos of Allegany State Park.
Crombe, Frank - Scottsville, NY - As a youth, Frank learned a lot of nature by being in constant contact with it as a caddy and landscaper. He is an accountant, currently consulting, is a Certified Management Accountant and has a Master’s Degree in Education. He belongs to the Burroughs Audubon Nature Club, The Nature Conservancy, The International Oak Society and is on the Committee for the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage. Frank has explored many places in the Northeast, Northern Europe and Honduras. He really enjoys being able to share with others as a hike leader. Come and enjoy the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage!
Crossley, Elaine - Frewsburg, NY - "The Bluebird Lady" Elaine Crossley has been an eastern bluebird conservationist & bluebird educator since 1968 (five years before the founding of the NYSBS.) She has built, placed and monitored bluebird nest boxes in her area in the Town of Carroll. She belongs to NABS & NYSBS, and since 1978 has held federal & NYS permits to salvage and possess bird feathers, nests and eggs of native birds for education. This allows her to provide wildlife programs about the eastern bluebird, our NY State bird. She has assisted Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, students and interested individuals in building nest boxes and setting up trails in Chautauqua and Cattaraugus counties. She is well known in Chautauqua County as the Bluebird Lady and our local Audubon Community Nature Center often refers people who have questions or problems with their bluebird trails to her. Elaine is currently NYSBS Chautauqua County Ambassador. She plans to continue to pursue her passion for the “Bluebird of Happiness” for her entire life!
Daniel, Steven - Pittsford, NY - Steven has spent most of his adult life immersed in natural history including formal and informal teaching, including a field natural history class he developed and has taught at local colleges for since the early 80's. An early retirement from teaching offered the opportunity to develop Nature Discoveries, an ecotour company he co-founded, and led over 140 trips to special natural areas around the world. Current interests include botany, dragonflies and butterflies. Semi-retired, he spends much of his time exploring the ecological treasures of New York’s North Country. He is Board Secretary of the New York Flora Association and Curator of the Rochester Academy of Science Herbarium. He has an M.S. in Science and Environmental education from Cornell University.
Deck, Brian - Java Center, NY - Brian is a self taught naturalist, familiar with edible plants, flora, fauna, geology, hydrology, and history. Brian leads tours at Niagara Falls in the summer and on the Rio Grande in the winter. Personal experiences include hiking the 100 mile wilderness on the Appalachian trail, backpacking over Mt Marcy, numerous backpacking, hiking, canoe and kayak trips, as well as traveling through the Australian outback.
DiMaio, Andrea - Falconer, NY - Andrea is a plus-size hiker, backpacker, traveler, cyclist, adventurer, yoga teacher, and speaker. Andrea leads inclusive hikes and other outdoor adventures in western New York with her group, Ample Movement. She is employed by adventure travel company, Whoa Travel and has led two trips to hike the Salkantay trail in the Andes Mountains of Peru, led adventures in Iceland and most recently in the Galapagos islands. In 2019 Andrea climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, one of the seven summits, in Tanzania, Africa with the Curvy Kili Crew. She also has her 500-hour yoga teacher certification and Wilderness First Aid certification. Andrea’s passion is sharing joyful movement through yoga and outdoor activities for all, with an emphasis on making space for people who aren’t used to seeing themselves represented in those spaces. Andrea believes in truly living in the bodies we have right now and in finding freedom knowing we all have intrinsic worth no matter our body type or identity.
Driscoll, Angela - Hamburg, NY - Angela has a bachelor’s degree in Biology with a minor in Environmental Studies from SUNY Geneseo, and got her masters in Botany at Miami University of Ohio, conducting spatial studies on invasive plants for my thesis. While at Miami, she taught a field botany course. After grad school, she worked at WNY Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management, primarily conducting surveys and managing invasive plants. Angela also taught a Great Lakes Education Program through Cradle Beach in various Buffalo schools. She currently works as a Wetlands & Waters Ecologist at the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, focusing on wetland delineations, stream and wetland permitting and enforcement. She has two toddlers and loves to spend as much time as she can with them and her husband outdoors, sharing her love of all things nature!
Duckett, Chris - Jamestown, NY - Chris is a self-taught naturalist and animal enthusiast with a passion for wildlife education and conservation. He is the founder and educator at WILD Creatures, where he takes in unwanted exotic and native animals and gives them a purpose through education. Chris visits local elementary schools, colleges, nature centers, libraries and festivals educating the public about wildlife conservation and proper pet husbundry with the help of his animal ambassadors. Lastly, he enjoys leading local nature walks throughout the year and encourages adults and children alike to get out and explore the natural world around them!
Dustin, Laura - Orchard Park, NY - Laura has always considered Allegany State Park part of her back yard. So, in 1976, when asked, Laura lead her first general nature hike for the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage. While continuing to be part of the Pilgrimage, she completed a vascular plant taxonomy of Cattaraugus County, NY, a second Masters in Chemistry, countless hours of physics and 30 years as a science instructor. As a retiree she continues her involvement with the Pilgrimage, hanging out with her dog, participating in various science activities and helping out at the Botanical Gardens in Buffalo.
Fabritius, Randal - Sinclairville, NY - Randal is the current president of the Allegany State Park Historical Society and has been camping and exploring the park for over 65 years.
Fendya, Jennifer - Buffalo, NY - Jennifer is certified by the Association of Nature & Forest Therapy Guides and Programs (ANFT) and has led forest bathing walks in and beyond Western NY since 2017. She is a Psychologist, Sandplay therapist, practitioner of Miksang ("Good Eye") contemplative photography, and Trainer/facilitator of climate-informed listening circles for the Climate Psychology Alliance, Healing Circles Global and the recently formed PAGEN (Place Attunement Greater Erie-Niagara). Jennifer serves on the boards for Radical Joy for Hard Times and the Friends Collaborative on Spirit and Psyche, both of which celebrate the vital role of human creativity in honoring and caring for the diversity of our more-than-human Earth family.
The Field Guides - The Field Guides is a podcast that brings you out on the trail, sharing the science of our North American wildlife. With Steve Fleck, Daniel Modozeniec and Bill Michalek, three natives of WNY with diverse experience in environmental education, botany, birding and all things outdoors. Check them out wherever you get your podcasts.
Gall, Wayne - Lancaster NY - The 2024 ANP will be Wayne’s 40th as a leader. He served on the staff of the Buffalo Museum of Science 1983-2001, initially as the BMS’ first Administrator-Naturalist of Tifft Nature Preserve, then Curator of Entomology. From 2001-2016 Wayne was Western Regional Entomologist for the NYS Dept of Health. From 2016-2023 he was Entomologist (Identifier) for the US Dept of Agriculture. Wayne earned BA in Biology at SUNY Buffalo; MS in Entomology at University Wisconsin-Madison; and PhD in Zoology at University Toronto. Wayne and his wife, Susan, have three children and eight grandchildren.
Gallineau, Kevin - Lake View, NY - Kevin is a retired auto technician/mechanic of 46 years. He has been going to ASP for 69 years. In his time in the ASP he has hiked, biked, hunted, fished and camped. In recent years he became a member of the Allegany State Park Historical Society he later got involved in volunteer services. He is a co-founder of Friends of Allegany State Park, past vice president, lifetime member and historian of the group. Volunteer work has gone from simple trash pickup to restoration of cabins and all aspects in between. He has also worked with ASP management during National Public Lands Day, First Day Hike, I Love My Park Day, Third Saturday Interpretive Hikes, Fire Tower and Stone Tower tours. This year proves to be very exciting for FOASP's culmination of an 8-year endeavor of restoring Allegany State Park Sawmill for tours. With Kevin's vast knowledge and history of Allegany State Park it should be a captivating and interesting presentation and tour of ASP fire towers.
Gaerte, Andres – East Aurora, NY - Andrew is the Director of Development and Communication at the Western New York Land Conservancy, where he plays a key role in advancing the organization’s mission to protect land and connect people to nature. A passionate birder and experienced tour guide, Andrew leads engaging outings across the region, sharing his deep knowledge of local ecosystems and bird species. His enthusiasm and expertise make him a favorite guide for both seasoned birders and newcomers alike.
Gardner, Frank - Bedford, MA - Frank has been an amateur birder for over 50 years and has been coming to the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage since the late 1960s. Allegany State Park is among his favorite places to go birding, and he likes to focus on birding by ear. In his professional life he works at the Environmental Protection Agency where he manages programs to clean up and revitalize contaminated lands and promote recycling.
Gardner, Meghan - Bedford, MA - Meghan is a professional speaker and designer. With decades of experience in transformative game and experience design, she has many wonderful stories to share. She has designed transformative experiences for the Smithsonian, Royal Caribbean, The Princeton Review, the Cherokee Nation, Boston Medical Center, and many more.
Hill, Jessica – Grand Island, NY - Jessica has worked with birds of prey for over a decade, and has been a falconer for nearly as long. She has attended the Pilgrimage for five seasons and is very excited to participate as a leader this year!"
Hoffman, Nan - Grand Island, NY - The acoustic music duo Nan Hoffman and Joe Tumino present concerts for audiences of all ages. Their rich blend of vocal harmonies and guitars accompany a repertoire that covers a wide range of folk songs and ballads, both contemporary and traditional, including topical, spiritual, and humorous songs. Joe and Nan are both from the Buffalo, NY area, and have performed for many years, separately and together, in coffeehouses and festivals, schools and churches, parks and community centers, and anywhere people gather to enjoy good music. Their programs are full and varied, fun and informative, and often encourage audience participation. Nan's and Joe's music is also available on CDs. These include collections of folk and contemporary acoustic music, children's music, and holiday music.
Howard, Andrew - Wildlife Technician Andrew Howard started out his career with the Seneca Nation Conservation Department as a youth, summertime employee. He has been full time with the department for 8 years. Andrew spent time as a patrol officer and worked his way up the ranks to being promoted as a wildlife technician. He has been working with the hatchery staff and crew since his youth employment days.
Jacobs, Marvin - Cheektowaga, NY - Marvin is a member of the Wolf Clan of the Seneca Nation and an Elder. He is a storyteller and root healer. He has given Native American talks to Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, Beaver Meadow Audubon Center and Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve. He is a Board Member of the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge.
Jager, Nancy - Dunkirk, NY - Nancy is a nature enthusiast who enjoys nature photography and learning about plants, local native, edible weeds, invasive species and garden herbs. Nancy is a Chautauqua Master Gardener and a Master Naturalist of Cornell Cooperative Extension. She holds a M.S. in Education from the State University of New York at Fredonia. She has NYS teacher certification in four areas: TESOL, Spanish, Home Economics, and Elementary Education. She is presently teaching international students at Fredonia State University. She has been a participant of Allegany Nature Pilgrimage since 2009, and leader since 2014. Nancy has given talks about Wild and Wonderful Weeds at Chautauqua Institution, has given a presentation on deer and voles in your garden at the annual ‘Grow Jamestown”. Nancy was a participant in the Wildflower Pilgrimage at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Gatlinburg, TN) (April 2014). Nancy is also a returned Peace Corps Volunteer from Paraguay. Bilingual English/Spanish.
Jandreau, Chelsea – Celoron, NY - Chelsea grew up in northern NY where she spent her childhood exploring the forests behind her house. She has worked in environmental education and other outdoor jobs for over ten years, travelling from the foothills of California to the wetlands of Louisiana, and the forests and fields in between. She is currently a nature educator at Audubon Community Nature Center, bringing her closer to the habitats she grew up around. She enjoys introducing others to the incredible things found right in their own backyards and local parks.
Kerr, Tom - Tonawanda, NY - A Graduate of SUNY ESF, Tom has worked for the Buffalo Audubon Society since 2011 and has been Leading birding tours for the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage for over 10 years. He also enjoys getting in the water and looking for aquatic insects and other creatures. Tom and his family look forward to the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage every year!
Klepp, Michael – West Shelby, NY - Educator, Horticulturist & Naturalist - Nature Teacher NY I have been fascinated and intrigued by the natural world from childhood. Exploring every nook and cranny, observing (and maybe chatting with) my smallest of wasp friends to the terrific turkey vultures that adorn my neighbor’s barn. Yep, I take to the misunderstood and underdogs. Learning is forever and I am passionate about developing a deeper understanding and appreciation for every part of the natural world and passing on that knowledge in relatable, positive, and practical ways. I try to incorporate my philosophy of “P.A.A.W.S., Walk A Mile With Them” (Plant, Animal, Air, Water & Soil) into the experiences I give, as they are all incredibly interconnected and vital components of healthy ecosystems!!
Knapp, Eli J., PhD. - Houghton, NY – Eli teaches in the Biology Department at Houghton University, in Houghton, NY. For fifteen years, he took students to East Africa where he directed the Houghton East Africa program. Like the birds that he loves, he continues to migrate with a flock each spring, taking students to various parts of the world as part of his annual Ornithology Course. He shares his three-acre yard with his lovely wife Linda, three (mostly) lovely children, and 109 species of birds. He has published two books with Torrey House Press, The Delightful Horror of Family Birding: Sharing Nature with the Next Generation (2018), Dead Serious: Wild Hope Amid the Sixth Extinction (2021). His third book, focusing on the importance of finding our place in nature, is titled: In the Crosswinds: Birds, Humans, and the Paradox of Place, hits bookstores on June 3rd.
Kysor, Dee - Manakin Sabot, VA - Dee Kysor and George Crafts have been presenting together stories from around the world and popular and original songs for thirty years. They have entertained children and adults in a number of settings, including schools, libraries, and camps. This is their third straight year sharing songs and stories at ANP.
Lalomio, Giulianna - Gowanda, NY - Giulianna started attending the Nature Pilgrimage when she was twelve, and it made her love for the outdoors bloom into an even greater passion. After interning as an educator at Allegany for a year and leading a few Pilgrimage activities of her own, she is fully equipped to continue sharing her love of these beautiful 65,000 acres with all those who wander through. She hopes that her prolonged participation in all things outdoors will further provision her career path opportunities after graduation.
LeBlanc, Thomas - Frewsburg, NY – Tom is a seasoned naturalist at Allegany State Park with over 30 years of experience as a field biologist and environmental educator. He received his bird banding permit in 1998 and became a certified bird bander through the North American Banding Council in 2003. Currently, Tom is studying changes in butterfly fauna at Allegany State Park over the past century. Since 1997, he has been an active leader with the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage.
Light, Garner - Gasport, NY - Long time ANP participant and leader. Past President of Friends of Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge Inc, Co-compiler for the Wilson-Lake Plains Christmas Bird Count and Coordinator for the Len Anderson Memorial Bluebird Trail.
Light, Judy - Gasport, NY - A retired art educator and ANP attendee/leader for 30+ years, Judy is always busy capturing nature through art by photographing, stamping, journaling, folding and tangling. At Pilgrimage she is either leading, wandering off seeking salamanders, photographing bits of nature, birding or siting off by herself drawing. Judy grew up on a small farm in Cattaraugus county and attending the Pilgrimage always feels like coming home!
Lundgren, Julie - Albany, NY - Julie is an ecologist with the non-profit NY Natural Heritage Program (nynhp.org) in Albany NY. For the past 15 years, she has worked under a partnership with NY State Parks, conducting surveys and advising on stewardship of Parks’ natural areas. She has been a part of NatureServe’s international Heritage network for 30 years. She has always had an interest in sharing insights into the wonders and beauty of nature.
Makeyenko, Lauren – Buffalo, NY - Lauren is passionate about connecting children and families with nature through multiple pathways. Witnessing a person’s curiosity prompted by nature is one of her favorite things. Lauren has held past positions as Director of Education for Buffalo Audubon, Experience Manager at Tifft Nature Preserve, and Educator at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve and is the founder and Co-Chair of Feminist Bird Club Buffalo. She lives in the Allentown neighborhood of Buffalo with her husband Josh, daughter Ruby and two dogs – Clarice and Sausage-Marie.
Maliki, Andy - Ellicottville, NY - Andy is a lifelong lover of Allegany State Park. At the age of seven he knew that he wanted a career working in the park from a young age. He started researching/studying areas of the park. From 2002 to 2014 he served as president and acting president of the Allegany State Park Historical Society. He has also volunteered on the summit fire tower restoration committee. In 2014, he became employed by New York State Office of Parks Recreation and Historical Preservation. Andy has lifelong experience working in the outdoor/camping industry.
Masso-Welch, Patricia - Clarence Center, NY - Patricia is a retired UB professor who has been drawing and painting wildlife and landscapes for 40 years. Since retirement, she has focused on guiding adult learners to successfully create beautiful impressionistic acrylic paintings from photos of natural settings and wildlife. Every learner has a different painting style, and the focus is always on individualized styles of expression, while relaxing and enjoying the process of artistic creation.
Miller, William - Officer Will Miller has been with the Seneca Nation Conservation Department for 18+ years and was responsible for initiating the Seneca Nation's hellbender research program. He has held many positions with the department, including the directorship.
Minner, Penelope- Salamanca, NY – Penny is a member of the Seneca Nation from the Allegany Territory, Turtle Clan. She is a traditional Seneca Artist, who still practices the traditional arts. Working with corn husk to make dolls, mats, and other objects, as well as black ash splint baskets and beadwork.
Myers, Chris - Landenberg, PA - Chris is a Professional Geologist with the Delaware Geological Survey. Chris studied geology at the University of Delaware. He was previously an environmental geologist in the northeast. He first attended the ANP in 1992 when he was 6 months old. His hobbies include outdoor activities, astronomy, photography and rock and mineral collecting.
Myers, Lon - West Chester, PA - Lon is an avid self-taught naturalist with a lifelong passion for nature. He has led walks at the Pilgrimage for 45 years including Beginning Birds, Sharing Nature with Children, Family Nature, The Splash Hike, Stream Adventure, Night Hike and Adults Only. This will be Lon’s 51st year as a leader. Lon currently serves as the ANP Field Trip Chairman.
Myers, Maggie - Landenberg, PA - Maggie is a professional geologist and currently works in Delaware as a technical manager for an environmental consulting firm. Her hobbies include various outdoor activities, cooking and home improvement/DIY projects. She frequently gives presentations to staff as well as school groups and young children. This is her third year as a leader at ANP.
Nobles, Emilie - Salamanca, NY - Emilie has nearly 20 years of experience in the field of water quality. From the National Parks Service in Everglades National Park, to the US Geological Survey's New England Water Science Center, and now the Natural Resource Department of New York State Parks at Allegany. She's currently continuing her studies at SUNY Fredonia.
Nusstein, Claudia - Warsaw, NY - Claudia grew up exploring the natural world along the shores of Lake Erie. She loves sharing the joy of discovering something new outside with others. Over the years she has worked at the New York State Parks, Reinstein Woods, Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center and Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper. Claudia is currently the Conservation Education Program Coordinator at the Genesee County Park & Forest Interpretive Nature Center in East Bethany.
Nusstein, Matt - Warsaw, NY - A student of nature, Matt is interested in every aspect of the natural world. His goal is to learn about the incredible diversity of life that surrounds us and share it with others. Matt has been an environmental educator for NYS Parks since 2014, starting in the Niagara Region and now currently serving as the director of the Humphrey Nature Center at Letchworth State Park and overseeing the environmental education department for the Genesee Region. Matt has also worked at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve and Rogers Environmental Educator Center.
Reeves, Robert - Buffalo, NY - Rob is a Leave No Trace Level 2 Instructor and New York State Master Naturalist, and currently serves on the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage Committee. He first gained an interest in the outdoors as a youth in Scouting and later as a long-distance backpacker, having thru-hiked both the Appalachian and Pacific Crest National Scenic Trails. Rob tries to learn as much as he can about trees, especially, because he thinks that they are very cool and is pretty sure that they still have plenty of mysteries to reveal if we can somehow listen long enough.
Rinow, Shannon - Jamestown, NY - Shannon lives with her family in Ashville, NY, where they operate Bee Happy Farm, a small honeybee and cut flower farm. She and her husband specialize in the safe removal and relocation of honeybee colonies from homes, barns, and other structures, transferring them to their own apiary. Shannon previously served as the Master Gardener Program Coordinator at Cornell Cooperative Extension, where she recruited and trained volunteers to serve as peer educators. In this role, she helped community members deepen their understanding of topics such as ornamental and edible gardening, beneficial and harmful insects, plant diseases, integrated pest management, wildlife, soils, composting, and more. She also serves as Secretary of the Chautauqua County Beekeepers Association, supporting local efforts in education and advocacy for pollinator health.
Rosenburg, Charles - Elma, NY - Chuck has a B.S. in wildlife management from Purdue University and an M.S. in biology from the College of William and Mary. His master’s thesis focused on barn owl habitat use, as determined using radio-telemetry. Since 2006, he has served as a Wetlands Ecologist and Habitat Protection Manager with the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. Chuck is an avid birder and has led numerous Owl Prowls for Buffalo Audubon Society and other groups.
Rosenburg, Kristen - Elma, NY - Kristen has always enjoyed spending time outdoors, nurtured by family camping trips to the Adirondacks, Algonquin Provincial Park and Yellowstone National Park. As a child, she attended her very first beaver colony tour and owl prowl at Allegany State Park. While attending graduate school at SUNY-ESF, Kristen returned to Allegany State Park to conduct field research studying beaver behavior. After completing a master's degree in wildlife biology, she has been employed since 2000 by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation as an Environmental Educator at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve in Depew, NY.
Rosten, Marcus - Tonawanda, NY - Marcus is a naturalist working to protect, connect, and restore the largest remaining tracts of wildlife habitat in Western New York. As the Director of the WNY Wildway with the Western New York Land Conservancy, he is leading a landscape-scale conservation initiative to create a network of protected and connected lands that will allow wildlife to safely travel from Allegany State Park up to Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. Marcus is a 30 Under 30 Awardee from the North American Association for Environmental Education and has been featured nationally in Scholastic News, Nike Journal, BirdNote, and on PBS Nature. Marcus is passionate about fungi, fish, ferns, birds, and land conservation!
Ruffino, Charles - Fredonia, NY - Charles is a mixed-media artist, K-5th Grade educator with nearly 25 years of teaching experience, and co-founder of the non-profit "Great Lake FX:" a youth program that explores nature through artmaking. Charles and his daughter Erin co-painted the Roger Tory Peterson Institute mural in 2021.
Ruffino, Erin - Fredonia, NY - Erin draws for art galleries and paints murals across the WNY region. She designed the last three shirts for ANP and the mural at the Roger Tory Peterson Institute (RTPI) in Jamestown, NY. Erin and her dad Charles co-painted the RTPI mural in 2021.
Rutherford, Heather - Medina, NY - Heather earned her NC Environmental Education Certification and MEd in Science Education while teaching fourth and second grades in North Carolina. Back in NY, she is on a quest to become a better naturalist by learning from others and taking time to observe changes and animal behaviors through her photography.
Schmitt, Tonie – Conewango Valley, NY - I am a local who has been attending ANP for the lest few years. I enjoy hiking and horse riding all over the local area, the U.S., and Canada. I have been a mental health therapist since 1997. I know the importance of the outdoors on mental health and wellbeing. I also study Homeopathy and am only beginning to understand the amazing medicine cabinet nature provides to us!
Smolarek, Linda - Boston Valley, NY – Tour guide and program leader for ‘Babes in the Woods’ at Beaver Meadow Audubon Center. Nature educator with Earthspirit, a not-for-profit environmental education organization. Author of Nature’s Corner column in WNY Family magazine and a Florida nature based newsletter. Author of six books in the Adirondack Audacity series, romantic mystery comedies set in the Adirondack mountains. And an all-round book lover!
Speers, Karen - Karen's love of the outdoors started back in the 60's when she became a Girl Scout. Having raised 3 children on a farm and spending as much time outside as possible, she continued this lifestyle while homeschooling her daughter, Giulianna. She dragged that kid around to as many environmental opportunities as possible while secretly loving it herself.
Spinler, Rebecca - Rebecca was a girl scout through her youth and an adult working with international staff at the local Girl Scout summer camp, Camp Timbercrest. Rebecca currently is a dedicated Prevent Specialist with a passion for helping others stay safe and healthy. With a strong background in prevention, Rebecca focuses on creating effective strategies to reduce risks in various settings. Outside of work, Rebecca is a crafting enthusiast, enjoying the creativity and relaxation that comes with making handmade projects. A proud mother to a wonderful son, Rebecca balances family life with a fulfilling career. After earning a college degree, Rebecca now enjoys a fulfilling life with a loving spouse, always seeking new ways to grow both personally and professionally.
Taylor, Garrett - Bradford, PA - Garrett has a project studying the mushrooms of Allegany State Park, photographing and sampling for iNaturalist.org, DNA barcoding, and fungarium specimens since 2018. He has discovered over 100 species whose barcode was not in any publicly available repository including GenBank. He is a member of the Rochester Area Mycological Association, the Western Pennsylvania Mushroom Club, Western NY Mycology Club and the Central PA Mushroom Club.
Tuttle, Siegrid - Erie, PA - Siegrid is an avid hiker and mountain biker who attended and interned at a survival camp called Coyote Tracks in high school. She now serves as an AmeriCorps at a leadership academy in West Virginia focused on outdoor education and youth empowerment.
Victor, Jeffrey - Jamestown, NY - Dr. Victor first learned how to hunt for wild edible mushrooms in France, with his French wife. He has been gathering and photographing wild mushrooms around Jamestown, New York, for 58 years. He is the author, with his wife, of an article about hunting and cooking local wild mushrooms, published in Edibles, Western New York magazine. Dr. Victor is a retired Professor of Sociology who taught at Jamestown Community College.
Wahl, Glenn - Little Valley, NY - Glenn teaches physical geology at Jamestown Community College and has degrees in geology and biology. He's given talks about local geology and natural history at venues ranging from Chautauqua Institution to out in the woods at Little Rock City. He owns the Sawmill Run Wildlife Sanctuary, is active in area environmental groups and loves to spend time in Allegany State Park hiking, biking and paddling.
Wellman, Adele - Salamanca, NY - Adele's job and goal in life is to connect people with the outdoors. As an environmental educator at Allegany State Park since 2000, she gets to do that every day. Her degree is in Biology and minor in Horticulture. She also has taught skiing for almost 40 years at the local ski areas. Adele is passionate about biking, fireflies, taking photos of tiny things and telemark skiing. She truly feel at home in the woods and enjoys seeing the seasonal shifts and all the treasure out there in nature.
Woodard, Ro – Falconer, NY - Ro has been the field trip chairman and now wants to have a little fun leading field trips. She is retired from NYS Parks as a Boating Safety Educator. Very active volunteer for Girl Scouts at Camp Timbercrest and helps to organize a one-week volunteer day camp at the Girl Scout's Jamestown Service Center. In the winter, you'll find her working on a boat restoration crew at The Lawson Center Antique Boat Museum in Bemus Point. In summer, you'll find her as a volunteer operator on the Bemus Point- Stow Ferry.
Wymer, David - Portville, NY - David has found ways to immerse himself in nature his entire life. Becoming involved in astronomy seemed a natural extension. He did astrophotography for many years beginning in the 90's. Never really about the images but about getting to those quiet, out of the way, dark sky places to experience the natural world as so few seem to do anymore.
Adriaansen, Michael – West Seneca, NY - Mike is an environmental educator with NYS Parks Niagara Region since 2023. He was also an environmental educator at Reinstein Woods for more than 15 years. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies from Binghamton University and a Master’s Degree in Environmental Interpretation from SUNY-ESF. A life-long naturalist that especially enjoys insects, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and outdoor skills. At the nature pilgrimage you may find him with binoculars, a bug net, or enjoying a Zweigle’s hot dog around a campfire.
Aiken, Wade – Bradford, NY - Newspaper photographer for 26 years, having shot just about everything you can imagine over that time. President of Twin Tier Camera Club, winner of numerous awards for photography.
Albert, Shannon – Cuba, NY - Shannon grew up in Salamanca, NY. She worked at Allegany State Park for thirteen years as a seasonal employee and environmental interpreter. She obtained a BS in Biology at Grove City College and a master’s degree from Saint Bonaventure University. She taught science at Cuba-Rushford Central School and began an annual 7th Grade Ecology Residence Camp, which took place at Camp Allegany. She also presented at several middle school and technology conferences. In the educational arena, Shannon has special interests in technology, robotics, and ecology and won several awards/nominations for her work. Now, in her retirement, she is an avid traveler and enjoys hiking, biking, kayaking, photography, and camping.
Anderson, Jonathan – Great Valley, NY - Jonathan is an environmental educator at Allegany State Park, dedicated to connecting people to nature through recreation. As a child, he camped in Allegany and attended Nature Pilgrimage, an experience that inspired his return as a presenter. He has taught snowboarding, skiing, surfing, kayaking, and led backpacking trips in locations like Fiji, New Zealand, Honduras, California, and New England. With a deep appreciation for the natural world, Jon encourages others to explore and appreciate the outdoors, believing that time in nature is essential for a fulfilling and healthy life.
Baird, Tim - Salamanca, NY - Tim is a retired science teacher who lives in Salamanca, NY. He has an interest in nature study and nature photography. Tim has been involved with the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage for many years. Meeting people with similar interests has been a highlight for Tim through his participation at the Pilgrimage. Nature observation is always a learning activity. He enjoys sharing his experiences in the natural world and learning from participants, many who have become true friends.
Baker, Conrad - Mount Morris, NY - Conrad is a professional naturalist and content creator. Tragically, since birth, he has been pathologically obsessed with insects. You can join him in shamelessly feeding his joyful obsession with the scientific and cultural splendor of insects at his two insect pinning and specimen preservation demonstrations. He camps, he hunts, he fishes, he traps, he veggie gardens, he plants native and he manages for pollinators and dragonflies at a beautiful country estate in the Genesee Valley of New York.
Braack, Craig – Andover, NY - Craig has been a serious nature photographer for over 30 and considers himself to be an advanced amateur. He is a Canon shooter currently, using their 6D Mark II body and lenses. In 1975, Craig graduated from Geneseo with a degree in Sociology. He is retired from Allegany County (NY) government where he served (38 years) as the County Historian, County Records Management Office, Museum Curator and some tourism promotion. He has travelled extensively - all 50 states, 6 provinces, 7 foreign countries, 40 of our 63 National Parks and many of the well-known nature photography locations in the nation.
Carra, Mark - West Valley, NY - Mark started as a wildlife educator in 1989 and has spoken to more than 800,000 people since then. He was the naturalist in residence for Beaver Meadow Audubon Center in North Java, NY and has worked as a representative and presenter for Animal Planet, National Geographic Channel, and Public Television and handled animals for many of their celebrities. His passion for learning and obsession to communicate what he has learned has kept him going all these years and loving the entire journey.
Carrier, Katy - West Valley, NY - Katy enjoys the outdoors and nature with her golden retriever in a variety of ways, including K9 therapy for 20 years. Also past involvement with search and rescue and emergency response. She has also taught orienteering with Women in the Outdoors and setting up map hike courses and fall meets at Erie County Forestry with the Buffalo Orienteering Club. She enjoys recreational orienteering in WNY, Pa. and Ohio. Recently retired allows more time for hiking, bicycling and Finger Lakes Trail maintenance.
Clarke, Kimberly – Bergen, NY - Kim has been a visitor to Allegany State Park since childhood and has attended the Nature Pilgrimage for 20+ years with her children and grandchildren. She is a retired childcare director and preschool teacher with a love of nature. She received a grant from the NYS Association for the Education of Young Children to create science kits to bring science and nature into the classroom. She loves getting children of all ages interested in exploring the outdoor world.
Contrino, Kathleen - Akron, NY – Kathy promotes the use of native plants in residential gardens in order to improve ecological diversity. She has been growing native plants and designing native plant gardens since 1997. Kathy is a Master Gardener (Orleans County), working on her certification in Medicinal plants and, as an avid birder, participates in the Feederwatch program with Cornell University. Currently Kathy is recreating the Great Lakes ecosystem on her 10 acres in Akron, NY where she participates in the open gardens section of the Gardens Buffalo Niagara. Kathy owns and operates the CW Native Plant Farm and CW Native Botanika
Corrigan, Peter - Buffalo, NY - Peter is an amateur naturalist who has been interested in birds and birding for over 30 years. He is a member of the Buffalo Audubon and Buffalo Ornithological Societies.
Corrigan, Teresa - Buffalo, NY - Teresa is avid hiker and enthusiastic amateur naturalist. She also loves yoga and teaches yoga at Power Yoga Buffalo and for Yogis in Service. She is thrilled to share both of her passions at the Pilgrimage.
Crafts, George - Manakin Sabot, VA - Dee Kysor and George Crafts have been presenting together stories from around the world and popular and original songs for thirty years. They have entertained children and adults in a number of settings, including schools, libraries, and camps. This is their third straight year sharing songs and stories at ANP.
Crandall, Diane – Erie, PA – Diane is a retired graphic design professor who taught design through beauty and proportion. She discovered that nature provides the perfect solutions for visual harmony, with mathematical principles like the Fibonacci sequence and the golden ratio found throughout the natural world. Diane is excited to share her insights on how these principles shape the world around us, offering a fresh perspective on the design of nature.
Crawford, Paul - Lockport, NY - Paul is a founding member of the Friends of Allegany State Park, a 501c3 Non-Profit Organization within Allegany State Park. The organization is in its twelfth year and tenth year as a Corporation. Paul has recently rejoined the ASP Historical Society where is is a lifetime member and board member. Please visit Paul’s YouTube Channel that has over 450 informational videos of Allegany State Park.
Crombe, Frank - Scottsville, NY - As a youth, Frank learned a lot of nature by being in constant contact with it as a caddy and landscaper. He is an accountant, currently consulting, is a Certified Management Accountant and has a Master’s Degree in Education. He belongs to the Burroughs Audubon Nature Club, The Nature Conservancy, The International Oak Society and is on the Committee for the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage. Frank has explored many places in the Northeast, Northern Europe and Honduras. He really enjoys being able to share with others as a hike leader. Come and enjoy the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage!
Crossley, Elaine - Frewsburg, NY - "The Bluebird Lady" Elaine Crossley has been an eastern bluebird conservationist & bluebird educator since 1968 (five years before the founding of the NYSBS.) She has built, placed and monitored bluebird nest boxes in her area in the Town of Carroll. She belongs to NABS & NYSBS, and since 1978 has held federal & NYS permits to salvage and possess bird feathers, nests and eggs of native birds for education. This allows her to provide wildlife programs about the eastern bluebird, our NY State bird. She has assisted Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, students and interested individuals in building nest boxes and setting up trails in Chautauqua and Cattaraugus counties. She is well known in Chautauqua County as the Bluebird Lady and our local Audubon Community Nature Center often refers people who have questions or problems with their bluebird trails to her. Elaine is currently NYSBS Chautauqua County Ambassador. She plans to continue to pursue her passion for the “Bluebird of Happiness” for her entire life!
Daniel, Steven - Pittsford, NY - Steven has spent most of his adult life immersed in natural history including formal and informal teaching, including a field natural history class he developed and has taught at local colleges for since the early 80's. An early retirement from teaching offered the opportunity to develop Nature Discoveries, an ecotour company he co-founded, and led over 140 trips to special natural areas around the world. Current interests include botany, dragonflies and butterflies. Semi-retired, he spends much of his time exploring the ecological treasures of New York’s North Country. He is Board Secretary of the New York Flora Association and Curator of the Rochester Academy of Science Herbarium. He has an M.S. in Science and Environmental education from Cornell University.
Deck, Brian - Java Center, NY - Brian is a self taught naturalist, familiar with edible plants, flora, fauna, geology, hydrology, and history. Brian leads tours at Niagara Falls in the summer and on the Rio Grande in the winter. Personal experiences include hiking the 100 mile wilderness on the Appalachian trail, backpacking over Mt Marcy, numerous backpacking, hiking, canoe and kayak trips, as well as traveling through the Australian outback.
DiMaio, Andrea - Falconer, NY - Andrea is a plus-size hiker, backpacker, traveler, cyclist, adventurer, yoga teacher, and speaker. Andrea leads inclusive hikes and other outdoor adventures in western New York with her group, Ample Movement. She is employed by adventure travel company, Whoa Travel and has led two trips to hike the Salkantay trail in the Andes Mountains of Peru, led adventures in Iceland and most recently in the Galapagos islands. In 2019 Andrea climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, one of the seven summits, in Tanzania, Africa with the Curvy Kili Crew. She also has her 500-hour yoga teacher certification and Wilderness First Aid certification. Andrea’s passion is sharing joyful movement through yoga and outdoor activities for all, with an emphasis on making space for people who aren’t used to seeing themselves represented in those spaces. Andrea believes in truly living in the bodies we have right now and in finding freedom knowing we all have intrinsic worth no matter our body type or identity.
Driscoll, Angela - Hamburg, NY - Angela has a bachelor’s degree in Biology with a minor in Environmental Studies from SUNY Geneseo, and got her masters in Botany at Miami University of Ohio, conducting spatial studies on invasive plants for my thesis. While at Miami, she taught a field botany course. After grad school, she worked at WNY Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management, primarily conducting surveys and managing invasive plants. Angela also taught a Great Lakes Education Program through Cradle Beach in various Buffalo schools. She currently works as a Wetlands & Waters Ecologist at the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, focusing on wetland delineations, stream and wetland permitting and enforcement. She has two toddlers and loves to spend as much time as she can with them and her husband outdoors, sharing her love of all things nature!
Duckett, Chris - Jamestown, NY - Chris is a self-taught naturalist and animal enthusiast with a passion for wildlife education and conservation. He is the founder and educator at WILD Creatures, where he takes in unwanted exotic and native animals and gives them a purpose through education. Chris visits local elementary schools, colleges, nature centers, libraries and festivals educating the public about wildlife conservation and proper pet husbundry with the help of his animal ambassadors. Lastly, he enjoys leading local nature walks throughout the year and encourages adults and children alike to get out and explore the natural world around them!
Dustin, Laura - Orchard Park, NY - Laura has always considered Allegany State Park part of her back yard. So, in 1976, when asked, Laura lead her first general nature hike for the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage. While continuing to be part of the Pilgrimage, she completed a vascular plant taxonomy of Cattaraugus County, NY, a second Masters in Chemistry, countless hours of physics and 30 years as a science instructor. As a retiree she continues her involvement with the Pilgrimage, hanging out with her dog, participating in various science activities and helping out at the Botanical Gardens in Buffalo.
Fabritius, Randal - Sinclairville, NY - Randal is the current president of the Allegany State Park Historical Society and has been camping and exploring the park for over 65 years.
Fendya, Jennifer - Buffalo, NY - Jennifer is certified by the Association of Nature & Forest Therapy Guides and Programs (ANFT) and has led forest bathing walks in and beyond Western NY since 2017. She is a Psychologist, Sandplay therapist, practitioner of Miksang ("Good Eye") contemplative photography, and Trainer/facilitator of climate-informed listening circles for the Climate Psychology Alliance, Healing Circles Global and the recently formed PAGEN (Place Attunement Greater Erie-Niagara). Jennifer serves on the boards for Radical Joy for Hard Times and the Friends Collaborative on Spirit and Psyche, both of which celebrate the vital role of human creativity in honoring and caring for the diversity of our more-than-human Earth family.
The Field Guides - The Field Guides is a podcast that brings you out on the trail, sharing the science of our North American wildlife. With Steve Fleck, Daniel Modozeniec and Bill Michalek, three natives of WNY with diverse experience in environmental education, botany, birding and all things outdoors. Check them out wherever you get your podcasts.
Gall, Wayne - Lancaster NY - The 2024 ANP will be Wayne’s 40th as a leader. He served on the staff of the Buffalo Museum of Science 1983-2001, initially as the BMS’ first Administrator-Naturalist of Tifft Nature Preserve, then Curator of Entomology. From 2001-2016 Wayne was Western Regional Entomologist for the NYS Dept of Health. From 2016-2023 he was Entomologist (Identifier) for the US Dept of Agriculture. Wayne earned BA in Biology at SUNY Buffalo; MS in Entomology at University Wisconsin-Madison; and PhD in Zoology at University Toronto. Wayne and his wife, Susan, have three children and eight grandchildren.
Gallineau, Kevin - Lake View, NY - Kevin is a retired auto technician/mechanic of 46 years. He has been going to ASP for 69 years. In his time in the ASP he has hiked, biked, hunted, fished and camped. In recent years he became a member of the Allegany State Park Historical Society he later got involved in volunteer services. He is a co-founder of Friends of Allegany State Park, past vice president, lifetime member and historian of the group. Volunteer work has gone from simple trash pickup to restoration of cabins and all aspects in between. He has also worked with ASP management during National Public Lands Day, First Day Hike, I Love My Park Day, Third Saturday Interpretive Hikes, Fire Tower and Stone Tower tours. This year proves to be very exciting for FOASP's culmination of an 8-year endeavor of restoring Allegany State Park Sawmill for tours. With Kevin's vast knowledge and history of Allegany State Park it should be a captivating and interesting presentation and tour of ASP fire towers.
Gaerte, Andres – East Aurora, NY - Andrew is the Director of Development and Communication at the Western New York Land Conservancy, where he plays a key role in advancing the organization’s mission to protect land and connect people to nature. A passionate birder and experienced tour guide, Andrew leads engaging outings across the region, sharing his deep knowledge of local ecosystems and bird species. His enthusiasm and expertise make him a favorite guide for both seasoned birders and newcomers alike.
Gardner, Frank - Bedford, MA - Frank has been an amateur birder for over 50 years and has been coming to the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage since the late 1960s. Allegany State Park is among his favorite places to go birding, and he likes to focus on birding by ear. In his professional life he works at the Environmental Protection Agency where he manages programs to clean up and revitalize contaminated lands and promote recycling.
Gardner, Meghan - Bedford, MA - Meghan is a professional speaker and designer. With decades of experience in transformative game and experience design, she has many wonderful stories to share. She has designed transformative experiences for the Smithsonian, Royal Caribbean, The Princeton Review, the Cherokee Nation, Boston Medical Center, and many more.
Hill, Jessica – Grand Island, NY - Jessica has worked with birds of prey for over a decade, and has been a falconer for nearly as long. She has attended the Pilgrimage for five seasons and is very excited to participate as a leader this year!"
Hoffman, Nan - Grand Island, NY - The acoustic music duo Nan Hoffman and Joe Tumino present concerts for audiences of all ages. Their rich blend of vocal harmonies and guitars accompany a repertoire that covers a wide range of folk songs and ballads, both contemporary and traditional, including topical, spiritual, and humorous songs. Joe and Nan are both from the Buffalo, NY area, and have performed for many years, separately and together, in coffeehouses and festivals, schools and churches, parks and community centers, and anywhere people gather to enjoy good music. Their programs are full and varied, fun and informative, and often encourage audience participation. Nan's and Joe's music is also available on CDs. These include collections of folk and contemporary acoustic music, children's music, and holiday music.
Howard, Andrew - Wildlife Technician Andrew Howard started out his career with the Seneca Nation Conservation Department as a youth, summertime employee. He has been full time with the department for 8 years. Andrew spent time as a patrol officer and worked his way up the ranks to being promoted as a wildlife technician. He has been working with the hatchery staff and crew since his youth employment days.
Jacobs, Marvin - Cheektowaga, NY - Marvin is a member of the Wolf Clan of the Seneca Nation and an Elder. He is a storyteller and root healer. He has given Native American talks to Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, Beaver Meadow Audubon Center and Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve. He is a Board Member of the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge.
Jager, Nancy - Dunkirk, NY - Nancy is a nature enthusiast who enjoys nature photography and learning about plants, local native, edible weeds, invasive species and garden herbs. Nancy is a Chautauqua Master Gardener and a Master Naturalist of Cornell Cooperative Extension. She holds a M.S. in Education from the State University of New York at Fredonia. She has NYS teacher certification in four areas: TESOL, Spanish, Home Economics, and Elementary Education. She is presently teaching international students at Fredonia State University. She has been a participant of Allegany Nature Pilgrimage since 2009, and leader since 2014. Nancy has given talks about Wild and Wonderful Weeds at Chautauqua Institution, has given a presentation on deer and voles in your garden at the annual ‘Grow Jamestown”. Nancy was a participant in the Wildflower Pilgrimage at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Gatlinburg, TN) (April 2014). Nancy is also a returned Peace Corps Volunteer from Paraguay. Bilingual English/Spanish.
Jandreau, Chelsea – Celoron, NY - Chelsea grew up in northern NY where she spent her childhood exploring the forests behind her house. She has worked in environmental education and other outdoor jobs for over ten years, travelling from the foothills of California to the wetlands of Louisiana, and the forests and fields in between. She is currently a nature educator at Audubon Community Nature Center, bringing her closer to the habitats she grew up around. She enjoys introducing others to the incredible things found right in their own backyards and local parks.
Kerr, Tom - Tonawanda, NY - A Graduate of SUNY ESF, Tom has worked for the Buffalo Audubon Society since 2011 and has been Leading birding tours for the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage for over 10 years. He also enjoys getting in the water and looking for aquatic insects and other creatures. Tom and his family look forward to the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage every year!
Klepp, Michael – West Shelby, NY - Educator, Horticulturist & Naturalist - Nature Teacher NY I have been fascinated and intrigued by the natural world from childhood. Exploring every nook and cranny, observing (and maybe chatting with) my smallest of wasp friends to the terrific turkey vultures that adorn my neighbor’s barn. Yep, I take to the misunderstood and underdogs. Learning is forever and I am passionate about developing a deeper understanding and appreciation for every part of the natural world and passing on that knowledge in relatable, positive, and practical ways. I try to incorporate my philosophy of “P.A.A.W.S., Walk A Mile With Them” (Plant, Animal, Air, Water & Soil) into the experiences I give, as they are all incredibly interconnected and vital components of healthy ecosystems!!
Knapp, Eli J., PhD. - Houghton, NY – Eli teaches in the Biology Department at Houghton University, in Houghton, NY. For fifteen years, he took students to East Africa where he directed the Houghton East Africa program. Like the birds that he loves, he continues to migrate with a flock each spring, taking students to various parts of the world as part of his annual Ornithology Course. He shares his three-acre yard with his lovely wife Linda, three (mostly) lovely children, and 109 species of birds. He has published two books with Torrey House Press, The Delightful Horror of Family Birding: Sharing Nature with the Next Generation (2018), Dead Serious: Wild Hope Amid the Sixth Extinction (2021). His third book, focusing on the importance of finding our place in nature, is titled: In the Crosswinds: Birds, Humans, and the Paradox of Place, hits bookstores on June 3rd.
Kysor, Dee - Manakin Sabot, VA - Dee Kysor and George Crafts have been presenting together stories from around the world and popular and original songs for thirty years. They have entertained children and adults in a number of settings, including schools, libraries, and camps. This is their third straight year sharing songs and stories at ANP.
Lalomio, Giulianna - Gowanda, NY - Giulianna started attending the Nature Pilgrimage when she was twelve, and it made her love for the outdoors bloom into an even greater passion. After interning as an educator at Allegany for a year and leading a few Pilgrimage activities of her own, she is fully equipped to continue sharing her love of these beautiful 65,000 acres with all those who wander through. She hopes that her prolonged participation in all things outdoors will further provision her career path opportunities after graduation.
LeBlanc, Thomas - Frewsburg, NY – Tom is a seasoned naturalist at Allegany State Park with over 30 years of experience as a field biologist and environmental educator. He received his bird banding permit in 1998 and became a certified bird bander through the North American Banding Council in 2003. Currently, Tom is studying changes in butterfly fauna at Allegany State Park over the past century. Since 1997, he has been an active leader with the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage.
Light, Garner - Gasport, NY - Long time ANP participant and leader. Past President of Friends of Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge Inc, Co-compiler for the Wilson-Lake Plains Christmas Bird Count and Coordinator for the Len Anderson Memorial Bluebird Trail.
Light, Judy - Gasport, NY - A retired art educator and ANP attendee/leader for 30+ years, Judy is always busy capturing nature through art by photographing, stamping, journaling, folding and tangling. At Pilgrimage she is either leading, wandering off seeking salamanders, photographing bits of nature, birding or siting off by herself drawing. Judy grew up on a small farm in Cattaraugus county and attending the Pilgrimage always feels like coming home!
Lundgren, Julie - Albany, NY - Julie is an ecologist with the non-profit NY Natural Heritage Program (nynhp.org) in Albany NY. For the past 15 years, she has worked under a partnership with NY State Parks, conducting surveys and advising on stewardship of Parks’ natural areas. She has been a part of NatureServe’s international Heritage network for 30 years. She has always had an interest in sharing insights into the wonders and beauty of nature.
Makeyenko, Lauren – Buffalo, NY - Lauren is passionate about connecting children and families with nature through multiple pathways. Witnessing a person’s curiosity prompted by nature is one of her favorite things. Lauren has held past positions as Director of Education for Buffalo Audubon, Experience Manager at Tifft Nature Preserve, and Educator at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve and is the founder and Co-Chair of Feminist Bird Club Buffalo. She lives in the Allentown neighborhood of Buffalo with her husband Josh, daughter Ruby and two dogs – Clarice and Sausage-Marie.
Maliki, Andy - Ellicottville, NY - Andy is a lifelong lover of Allegany State Park. At the age of seven he knew that he wanted a career working in the park from a young age. He started researching/studying areas of the park. From 2002 to 2014 he served as president and acting president of the Allegany State Park Historical Society. He has also volunteered on the summit fire tower restoration committee. In 2014, he became employed by New York State Office of Parks Recreation and Historical Preservation. Andy has lifelong experience working in the outdoor/camping industry.
Masso-Welch, Patricia - Clarence Center, NY - Patricia is a retired UB professor who has been drawing and painting wildlife and landscapes for 40 years. Since retirement, she has focused on guiding adult learners to successfully create beautiful impressionistic acrylic paintings from photos of natural settings and wildlife. Every learner has a different painting style, and the focus is always on individualized styles of expression, while relaxing and enjoying the process of artistic creation.
Miller, William - Officer Will Miller has been with the Seneca Nation Conservation Department for 18+ years and was responsible for initiating the Seneca Nation's hellbender research program. He has held many positions with the department, including the directorship.
Minner, Penelope- Salamanca, NY – Penny is a member of the Seneca Nation from the Allegany Territory, Turtle Clan. She is a traditional Seneca Artist, who still practices the traditional arts. Working with corn husk to make dolls, mats, and other objects, as well as black ash splint baskets and beadwork.
Myers, Chris - Landenberg, PA - Chris is a Professional Geologist with the Delaware Geological Survey. Chris studied geology at the University of Delaware. He was previously an environmental geologist in the northeast. He first attended the ANP in 1992 when he was 6 months old. His hobbies include outdoor activities, astronomy, photography and rock and mineral collecting.
Myers, Lon - West Chester, PA - Lon is an avid self-taught naturalist with a lifelong passion for nature. He has led walks at the Pilgrimage for 45 years including Beginning Birds, Sharing Nature with Children, Family Nature, The Splash Hike, Stream Adventure, Night Hike and Adults Only. This will be Lon’s 51st year as a leader. Lon currently serves as the ANP Field Trip Chairman.
Myers, Maggie - Landenberg, PA - Maggie is a professional geologist and currently works in Delaware as a technical manager for an environmental consulting firm. Her hobbies include various outdoor activities, cooking and home improvement/DIY projects. She frequently gives presentations to staff as well as school groups and young children. This is her third year as a leader at ANP.
Nobles, Emilie - Salamanca, NY - Emilie has nearly 20 years of experience in the field of water quality. From the National Parks Service in Everglades National Park, to the US Geological Survey's New England Water Science Center, and now the Natural Resource Department of New York State Parks at Allegany. She's currently continuing her studies at SUNY Fredonia.
Nusstein, Claudia - Warsaw, NY - Claudia grew up exploring the natural world along the shores of Lake Erie. She loves sharing the joy of discovering something new outside with others. Over the years she has worked at the New York State Parks, Reinstein Woods, Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center and Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper. Claudia is currently the Conservation Education Program Coordinator at the Genesee County Park & Forest Interpretive Nature Center in East Bethany.
Nusstein, Matt - Warsaw, NY - A student of nature, Matt is interested in every aspect of the natural world. His goal is to learn about the incredible diversity of life that surrounds us and share it with others. Matt has been an environmental educator for NYS Parks since 2014, starting in the Niagara Region and now currently serving as the director of the Humphrey Nature Center at Letchworth State Park and overseeing the environmental education department for the Genesee Region. Matt has also worked at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve and Rogers Environmental Educator Center.
Reeves, Robert - Buffalo, NY - Rob is a Leave No Trace Level 2 Instructor and New York State Master Naturalist, and currently serves on the Allegany Nature Pilgrimage Committee. He first gained an interest in the outdoors as a youth in Scouting and later as a long-distance backpacker, having thru-hiked both the Appalachian and Pacific Crest National Scenic Trails. Rob tries to learn as much as he can about trees, especially, because he thinks that they are very cool and is pretty sure that they still have plenty of mysteries to reveal if we can somehow listen long enough.
Rinow, Shannon - Jamestown, NY - Shannon lives with her family in Ashville, NY, where they operate Bee Happy Farm, a small honeybee and cut flower farm. She and her husband specialize in the safe removal and relocation of honeybee colonies from homes, barns, and other structures, transferring them to their own apiary. Shannon previously served as the Master Gardener Program Coordinator at Cornell Cooperative Extension, where she recruited and trained volunteers to serve as peer educators. In this role, she helped community members deepen their understanding of topics such as ornamental and edible gardening, beneficial and harmful insects, plant diseases, integrated pest management, wildlife, soils, composting, and more. She also serves as Secretary of the Chautauqua County Beekeepers Association, supporting local efforts in education and advocacy for pollinator health.
Rosenburg, Charles - Elma, NY - Chuck has a B.S. in wildlife management from Purdue University and an M.S. in biology from the College of William and Mary. His master’s thesis focused on barn owl habitat use, as determined using radio-telemetry. Since 2006, he has served as a Wetlands Ecologist and Habitat Protection Manager with the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. Chuck is an avid birder and has led numerous Owl Prowls for Buffalo Audubon Society and other groups.
Rosenburg, Kristen - Elma, NY - Kristen has always enjoyed spending time outdoors, nurtured by family camping trips to the Adirondacks, Algonquin Provincial Park and Yellowstone National Park. As a child, she attended her very first beaver colony tour and owl prowl at Allegany State Park. While attending graduate school at SUNY-ESF, Kristen returned to Allegany State Park to conduct field research studying beaver behavior. After completing a master's degree in wildlife biology, she has been employed since 2000 by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation as an Environmental Educator at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve in Depew, NY.
Rosten, Marcus - Tonawanda, NY - Marcus is a naturalist working to protect, connect, and restore the largest remaining tracts of wildlife habitat in Western New York. As the Director of the WNY Wildway with the Western New York Land Conservancy, he is leading a landscape-scale conservation initiative to create a network of protected and connected lands that will allow wildlife to safely travel from Allegany State Park up to Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. Marcus is a 30 Under 30 Awardee from the North American Association for Environmental Education and has been featured nationally in Scholastic News, Nike Journal, BirdNote, and on PBS Nature. Marcus is passionate about fungi, fish, ferns, birds, and land conservation!
Ruffino, Charles - Fredonia, NY - Charles is a mixed-media artist, K-5th Grade educator with nearly 25 years of teaching experience, and co-founder of the non-profit "Great Lake FX:" a youth program that explores nature through artmaking. Charles and his daughter Erin co-painted the Roger Tory Peterson Institute mural in 2021.
Ruffino, Erin - Fredonia, NY - Erin draws for art galleries and paints murals across the WNY region. She designed the last three shirts for ANP and the mural at the Roger Tory Peterson Institute (RTPI) in Jamestown, NY. Erin and her dad Charles co-painted the RTPI mural in 2021.
Rutherford, Heather - Medina, NY - Heather earned her NC Environmental Education Certification and MEd in Science Education while teaching fourth and second grades in North Carolina. Back in NY, she is on a quest to become a better naturalist by learning from others and taking time to observe changes and animal behaviors through her photography.
Schmitt, Tonie – Conewango Valley, NY - I am a local who has been attending ANP for the lest few years. I enjoy hiking and horse riding all over the local area, the U.S., and Canada. I have been a mental health therapist since 1997. I know the importance of the outdoors on mental health and wellbeing. I also study Homeopathy and am only beginning to understand the amazing medicine cabinet nature provides to us!
Smolarek, Linda - Boston Valley, NY – Tour guide and program leader for ‘Babes in the Woods’ at Beaver Meadow Audubon Center. Nature educator with Earthspirit, a not-for-profit environmental education organization. Author of Nature’s Corner column in WNY Family magazine and a Florida nature based newsletter. Author of six books in the Adirondack Audacity series, romantic mystery comedies set in the Adirondack mountains. And an all-round book lover!
Speers, Karen - Karen's love of the outdoors started back in the 60's when she became a Girl Scout. Having raised 3 children on a farm and spending as much time outside as possible, she continued this lifestyle while homeschooling her daughter, Giulianna. She dragged that kid around to as many environmental opportunities as possible while secretly loving it herself.
Spinler, Rebecca - Rebecca was a girl scout through her youth and an adult working with international staff at the local Girl Scout summer camp, Camp Timbercrest. Rebecca currently is a dedicated Prevent Specialist with a passion for helping others stay safe and healthy. With a strong background in prevention, Rebecca focuses on creating effective strategies to reduce risks in various settings. Outside of work, Rebecca is a crafting enthusiast, enjoying the creativity and relaxation that comes with making handmade projects. A proud mother to a wonderful son, Rebecca balances family life with a fulfilling career. After earning a college degree, Rebecca now enjoys a fulfilling life with a loving spouse, always seeking new ways to grow both personally and professionally.
Taylor, Garrett - Bradford, PA - Garrett has a project studying the mushrooms of Allegany State Park, photographing and sampling for iNaturalist.org, DNA barcoding, and fungarium specimens since 2018. He has discovered over 100 species whose barcode was not in any publicly available repository including GenBank. He is a member of the Rochester Area Mycological Association, the Western Pennsylvania Mushroom Club, Western NY Mycology Club and the Central PA Mushroom Club.
Tuttle, Siegrid - Erie, PA - Siegrid is an avid hiker and mountain biker who attended and interned at a survival camp called Coyote Tracks in high school. She now serves as an AmeriCorps at a leadership academy in West Virginia focused on outdoor education and youth empowerment.
Victor, Jeffrey - Jamestown, NY - Dr. Victor first learned how to hunt for wild edible mushrooms in France, with his French wife. He has been gathering and photographing wild mushrooms around Jamestown, New York, for 58 years. He is the author, with his wife, of an article about hunting and cooking local wild mushrooms, published in Edibles, Western New York magazine. Dr. Victor is a retired Professor of Sociology who taught at Jamestown Community College.
Wahl, Glenn - Little Valley, NY - Glenn teaches physical geology at Jamestown Community College and has degrees in geology and biology. He's given talks about local geology and natural history at venues ranging from Chautauqua Institution to out in the woods at Little Rock City. He owns the Sawmill Run Wildlife Sanctuary, is active in area environmental groups and loves to spend time in Allegany State Park hiking, biking and paddling.
Wellman, Adele - Salamanca, NY - Adele's job and goal in life is to connect people with the outdoors. As an environmental educator at Allegany State Park since 2000, she gets to do that every day. Her degree is in Biology and minor in Horticulture. She also has taught skiing for almost 40 years at the local ski areas. Adele is passionate about biking, fireflies, taking photos of tiny things and telemark skiing. She truly feel at home in the woods and enjoys seeing the seasonal shifts and all the treasure out there in nature.
Woodard, Ro – Falconer, NY - Ro has been the field trip chairman and now wants to have a little fun leading field trips. She is retired from NYS Parks as a Boating Safety Educator. Very active volunteer for Girl Scouts at Camp Timbercrest and helps to organize a one-week volunteer day camp at the Girl Scout's Jamestown Service Center. In the winter, you'll find her working on a boat restoration crew at The Lawson Center Antique Boat Museum in Bemus Point. In summer, you'll find her as a volunteer operator on the Bemus Point- Stow Ferry.
Wymer, David - Portville, NY - David has found ways to immerse himself in nature his entire life. Becoming involved in astronomy seemed a natural extension. He did astrophotography for many years beginning in the 90's. Never really about the images but about getting to those quiet, out of the way, dark sky places to experience the natural world as so few seem to do anymore.
