Zachary Lesch-Huie

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 Tennessee for more than a decade. 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 nonprofits.

Prior to joining The Conservation Fund, Zachary was 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. His past experience also 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.

Whether in Tennessee or further afield, Zachary enjoys cooking up outdoor adventures with his wife and young daughter. Rock climbing, paddling, swimming, running and fishing are favorite family pastimes.