Zell and his family spent countless summers on Grindstone Island. He was dedicated to family, the communities he lived in, and the planet he loved.
During Zell’s time on the TILT Board from 2004-2012, he served on the EPA, EPS and Executive committees. His dedication to stewardship and best land management practices found him frequently on TILT’s Grindstone Island Preserves assisting staff with grassland habitat work and trail improvements. He was instrumental in helping the organization navigate several important conservation initiatives, including the expansion of the Zenda Farms Preserve, Crooked Creek Preserve and Shoals Preserve. After his service on the Board, he volunteered each summer to help lead the infamous Grindstone Island Mule Tour. He found great enjoyment in sharing his knowledge of wetland ecosystems and the variety of wildlife that call the Island home. And in 2018, Zell worked closely with staff to catalyze the conservation of Manley Rusho’s property, expanding TILT’s Delaney Bay Preserve.
Prior to his time on the TILT Board, he was a conflict resolution specialist for the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, the federal agency that deals with water distribution rights in the western United States. Zell also worked for the President’s Council on Environmental Quality, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Corps of Engineers, and was a member of the U.S. delegation to Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992.
A supporter of the Land Trust for over 26 years, there is no question that Zell’s passion for the outdoors and natural environment transcended both his professional career and personal life. While away from the River, he was deeply engaged in issues affecting his local community in Groton, Connecticut. Whether it was the environment, land use, water quality, climate resilience or public transportation matters, he was always willing to lend a helping hand and offer volunteer support.
Simply put, Zell was a great man. Incredibly smart, an ardent advocate, and an all-around good person to spend time with. He did so much for the Grindstone Island community and conservation in the Thousand Islands and will be greatly missed.
