Episode #165: Thinking About The Trail - Preserving the Ice Age National Scenic Trail with Luke Kloberdanz of The Ice Age Trail Alliance

In this episode we chat with Luke Kloberdanz, the Executive Director of The Ice Age Trail Alliance. With a love of conservation and exploration, Luke spearheads the mission to conserve, create, maintain, and promote the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. His journey with the Ice Age Trail Alliance began in 2001, during a chapter-led trail improvement day. This initial step led him to immerse himself in the heart of trail building efforts, by participating in the Mobile Skills Crew training in 2002. Then, in 2003 he thru-hike along the Ice Age Trail, which solidified his dedication to the trail's preservation. In 2013, Luke's involvement evolved into a full-time commitment when he joined the Alliance staff as Outreach and Education Manager. Drawing from his background as a fourth-grade teacher, he innovated the Saunters program, designed to provide children with an experiential immersion into the wonders of the Ice Age Trail. Now as the Executive Director, Luke's fulfilling their mission by fostering connections with others to help create, maintain and celebrate the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. Whether you're an avid trail enthusiast, a conservation advocate, or simply intrigued by stories of individuals shaping the landscape for future generations, this one's for you!