Members-at-Large

Stuart Arnett – Environmental Awareness

Growing up in Gananoque, Ontario, played a significant role in my wildlife and nautical interests. That inspiration comes through in my art. I work in graphite and watercolour and primarily focus on North American wildlife and fish species. As a Wildlife Conservation Artist and a signature member of Artists for Conservation, one of my main goals is to assist both specie and habitat conservation through Art. By joining the TIA as their Environmental Co-Chair & Member-at-Large, I hope to bring a clearer understanding of how we can co-exist and help our wildlife and environment to thrive. Please visit my website to learn more about me: www.stuartarnett.com

Barrie (Huck) Kay – Environmental Awareness

Growing up in the Lansdowne area allowed my being on and in the St. Lawrence River from a very early age. My very first summer job was with the Gananoque Boat Line where I had my first taste of life on the River. For the past 28 years I have operated out of Ivy lea allowing me to spend time out among and on the islands from early spring through late fall. My off season views and pictures of the river allows me a unique and different glimpse of river life than more seasonal viewers have. I am happy to share this perspective and perhaps bring to the forefront some areas that need a little extra attention… perhaps in River Clean Up Days.

Dave McWilliam – Environmental Awareness

Like many in the Thousand Islands, I am a transplant. I was fortunate enough to work in the Islands, especially the National Park Islands in the early 70’s, and was amazed that much of Ontario seemed not to have yet discovered what is our greatest river, the St. Lawrence. As a family, we returned some 30 years ago and have found ourselves as riverside residents just off the Bateau Channel. Most mornings, I wake to the sound of geese and the ever-changing seasonal views. As every year passes, more and more of the world finds out about our hidden treasures in the St. Lawrence and her Islands, of which I am privileged to be a part.

Ross Stewart – Water Levels

Growing up in the 1000 Islands has been an incredible privilege.   For six generations now our family has been fortunate enough to enjoy the natural beauty of the St. Lawrence River on a small island inside the Brockville group.  While we have all greatly benefited from the TIA’s River Safety program, the Community and Environmental programs are equally important for the residents.   I have long had a passion and curiosity for understanding many aspects of the islands; from its ecological history to our human-built history.  With the pace of change ever-increasing in many aspects of daily lives, and indeed that of the natural environment, it is important we work as a community to understand and advocate for the 1000 Islands region….to preserve the character and nature of the area. For me the Thousand Islands Association is the embodiment of these aspects of river life.

Mark Yehle – Shoal Marking

I’m a third-generation River Rat and have spent time on the river every summer of my life. I’ve enjoyed various residences, including in Thousand Islands Park and on Maple Island when I was younger, and currently on Troughton Island where I’m enjoying my retirement with my wife, Michele, of 47 years. I bring to TIA an intimate knowledge of the river on both sides of the border, including the various shoals I’ve hit over the years! I’m delighted to now volunteer with the Shoal Marking Program to help others safely navigate the river and avoid those shoals.