Board of Directors

Shelly Smith

I'm a social worker and in fact, it was a job at Copper Country Mental Health that originally brought me to the Keweenaw over ten years ago. I still work for CCMH and although my job duties are primarily administrative I am still able to be involved in clinical work, which has proved to be a good balance for me.

My favorite things about the Keweenaw are the abundance of natural spaces and the people. The fact that I can literally walk out my back door and be on an extensive trail system is a luxury virtually unheard of in many parts of our country these days. I believe that in many ways society is losing contact with nature and that this could have a negative impact on future generations. I also love the fact that we are surrounded by water. The Great Lakes contribute so much to the collective cultural, educational, and ecological consciousness. I cannot imagine ever living anywhere too far away from one of the big lakes and feel we are very fortunate to have Lake Superior in our virtual backyard.

In the summer I look forward to doing anything on or near the water, particularly kayaking. I also love being in the woods whether to hike, bike, or track down native plants. I also spend a lot of time gardening. I think that winter in the Keweenaw is just amazing; whether I'm in the woods or on the frozen lakeshore, I love to get out as often as possible to go snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

I believe that maintaining a connection to nature is vital to our well-being and that we can learn a lot in observing the natural world. As our day-to-day lives become increasingly frenetic and technology dictates the pace at which we are able to accomplish things, the balance that can be achieved by enjoying outdoor activities will become even more important. Ensuring that natural lands are set aside and remain free of development is vital to our mental and physical health.

I joined the KLT Board of Directors primarily because I believe in the mission of the organization and the overall purpose and goal of land trusts. I wanted to offer my time and enthusiasm to assist in the preservation of the natural spaces and undisturbed shoreline of the Keweenaw.

I bring organizational and administrative skills to the KLT Board that will be beneficial to the organization.


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