Zachary Lesch-Huie

State Director, Tennessee, Conservation Acquisition

Zachary serves as our Tennessee State Director, advancing land conservation work with public and private partners across the state. Based in Chattanooga, he has led and supported land conservation projects and sustainable outdoor recreation initiatives in eastern TN for more than ten years. His work has built a strong network of partners with federal and state agencies, local counties and towns, state and local land trusts, private landowners and foundations, and other non-profits.

He most recently served as VP of Programs and Acquisitions at Access Fund, the national climbing conservation and advocacy organization, and only LTA-accredited climbing land trust in the country. In this senior role he managed a core team advancing stewardship, local support, regional initiatives, and land protection programs, including oversight of their revolving loan fund, and conservation easements and holdings across the U.S.

Past experience includes restoration and land conservation work in western North Carolina with The American Chestnut Foundation, Carolina Climbers Coalition, Conserving Carolinas, and Blue Ridge Conservancy, in addition to projects with federal and state agencies. Zachary holds a BA in Interdisciplinary Studies from Appalachian State University.

In his free time Zachary spends time outside, and is especially fond of the rivers and mountains of Southern Appalachia. He enjoys climbing, paddling, hiking and camping with family and friends.

Contact:  zleschhuie@conservationfund.org    Phone: (828) 545-7362    Office: Tennessee