Basil Seggos Joins the Thousand Islands Land Trust’s Board of Trustees
The Thousand Islands Land Trust (TILT) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Basil Seggos to its Board of Trustees. Basil brings a wealth of experience in environmental policy, climate action, and conservation leadership, having recently completed his tenure as the longest-serving Commissioner of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). He is currently working as a Partner and Senior Policy Director at Foley Hoag LLP, advising on climate, clean water, energy, and sustainability.
As DEC Commissioner from 2015 to 2024, Seggos led major initiatives to protect New York State’s natural resources and combat climate change, including the passage of the landmark Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. He also spearheaded the $5.5 billion Clean Water Infrastructure Act, set some of the nation’s most protective water quality standards, and embedded equity into agency operations. Seggos also co-chaired the Lake Ontario-St. Lawrence River Resiliency and Economic Development Initiative (REDI) which directed $300 million to shoreline restoration projects following the record floods of 2017 and 2019.
“Basil’s extensive background in environmental protection and climate resiliency will be a tremendous asset to our mission,” said Dave Lucas, President of TILT. “His proven leadership at the state level, particularly his work in restoring water infrastructure and safeguarding water quality, aligns perfectly with TILT’s goals of protecting the Thousand Islands’ unique ecosystems.”
Basil has a distinguished career in environmental advocacy and legal work, having served as a Chief Investigator and Attorney for Riverkeeper and worked at the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). He also served as an officer in the U.S. Army Reserve and is a Board Member of the charity Ukraine Focus, with whom he delivers ambulances and humanitarian aid to war-torn Ukraine. Seggos is a fellow at the National Security Institute and the American College of Environmental Lawyers.
“I am honored to join TILT’s Board and support their vital work in conserving the lands and waters of the Thousand Islands region, a place that is so special for me and my family,” said Seggos. “This is an area of immense natural beauty and ecological significance and so many vibrant communities. I look forward to contributing to its conservation for future generations.”
With Basil’s appointment, the Land Trust strengthens its commitment to protecting the environmental health and resilience of the Thousand Islands, ensuring that its treasured landscapes continue to thrive.
