Board of Directors

Cody Gillin

President

Cody Gillin was born and raised in Wenatchee where his family has roots dating to the early 1900s. He earned degrees from Western Washington University and Virginia Tech and spent time traveling in Latin America before returning to the area in 2014. Cody, his wife Maura, and their daughters Adair and Hollis enjoy the diversity of people and landscapes found in North Central Washington.

“Serving the CDLT through board and committee membership is an expression of my conservation ethos. Lands and waters are the lifeblood of this community; they nourish crops, provide electricity, sustain fisheries and wildlife, and enrich the lives of all who experience their power and wonder.”
 

John Zanol

Vice-President

John grew up in Orondo, one of nine children and fourth generation in an orcharding family.  He graduated from Gonzaga University and the University of Washington School of Medicine.  A three-year residency at the University of Missouri turned into a twenty-five year stay, practicing Emergency Medicine.  He and his wife, Jane, moved to Wenatchee in 2010.  They enjoy hiking, kayaking, skiing, and especially birding in gorgeous central Washington.  He served on CDLT’s Board from 2014 to 2020, and is pleased at a chance to rejoin that group. “My plan was always to return to Wenatchee.  Jane and I joined CDLT even before we moved here, after seeing its great preservation work with the Foothills Project.  I’d love to continue helping with that work, balancing preservation with recreational access to further bond our people to our land.”

Martin Straub

Secretary/Treasure

As a natural world and trail enthusiast, Martin has been a big supporter of the CDLT since moving to Leavenworth in 2001.  He has served in various Board roles on other NCW nonprofits over the years, including Wenatchee Outdoors, Mission Vista, and Wenatchee River Institute.  As the owner of SimplePowerIT, a tech company providing network and end user support to area organizations, he’s also had the opportunity to provide strategic technology guidance to regional nonprofits such as the Community Foundation of NCW, YMCA, Methow Conservancy, and many others. Martin’s first outdoor love is winter season, seeking different adventures dependent on snow conditions – often Nordic skiing in Plain and the Methow, touring lower angled slopes near Blewett Pass, or riding the chairlifts on powder days.  Once the snow has melted, mountain biking becomes his go to, with Sage Hills often being his first, eagerly anticipated ride of the season.  Martin is looking forward to drawing off his past NFP Board experience and passion for conservation in his new role as CDLT Board member.

Rob Shurtleff

Board Member

Rob and Cindy Shurtleff have been members of CDLT since 2001. Rob’s non-profit board experience includes Washington Trails Association 2007-2016 (board president; chair of tech, governance and fundraising committees), and Pacific Science Center 2017- present (secretary, real estate committee chair). Rob co-led CDLT's Save Nason Ridge Campaign in 2018. Rob continues as a volunteer with the WTA, serving on the Technology Committee, as a content contributor to the Hiking Guide and doing trail work.

Rob is an experienced software development veteran and early-stage technology investor with key strengths in leading the development of technical and business strategy, new product development and product management. He worked for 22 years in the technology field before focusing on early-stage tech investing, first as an Angel Investor, then as a founding partner at Divergent Ventures in 2005.  

Rob and his wife Cindy, and his ever-present German Shepherd, Shasta, split time between living in Pike Place Market in Seattle and Lake Wenatchee with occasional travel mixed in. They have 2 grown children who live in Seattle and Santa Cruz, California.

“We have been hugely impressed with the accomplishments the CDLT has made over the last 20 years,” says Rob. "As I work on the ‘give back’ chapter in my life, I am very excited to contribute to the CDLT and share learnings from other exceptional non-profits I have had the honor to serve.”
 

Ruth Traxler

Board Member

Ruth Traxler is a land use planner with experience across the western states. She has a Master of Science in Geography and Planning, and is accredited by the American Institute of Certified Planners. Ruth began her career working as an AmeriCorps volunteer for the Cascade Land Conservancy (now Forterra) out of their Ellensburg office. Since then, she has maintained a personal interest in conservation for the purposes of habitat and working land preservation, outdoor recreation, and the aesthetic values of open space. Professionally, she has extensive experience in current planning and entitlements, as well as in policy development and growth management. She and her family live and work in the Wenatchee valley, and enjoy spending time together outside, whether they're playing soccer at the park or mountain biking in the foothills.  

“I believe that good planning and conservation work both rely on principles that prioritize creating livable and affordable communities and protecting the range of values that our natural resource lands provide. Since we moved to Wenatchee, I have been impressed with CDLT’s success in conservation in the Wenatchee valley and am grateful for the opportunity to advocate for the organization and their work.”
 

Celeste Barry

Board Member

Celeste Barry grew up in Cashmere and returned in 2010 to Wenatchee to raise her family. She has a degree in community and environmental planning from the University of Washington and several years of experience as an urban planner in the Seattle area. Currently, her time is spent raising her two children, and staying involved in the community through opportunities such as volunteering for the Land Trust and coaching Girls on the Run. 

"I spent my childhood hiking and backpacking in our beautiful state, and I want to make sure that this opportunity stays a reality for all future generations. I also love to travel and have lived abroad in Costa Rica and traveled extensively in Europe and the Americas. These experiences have given me special appreciation for all that we have here in the Wenatchee Valley. My favorite activities include family, photography, travel, skiing, biking, birding, Spanish, running, hiking and mountain climbing - which is why I love living in Wenatchee! I believe that growing up here in the Wenatchee Valley and also having experienced environments such as Seattle, Yakima, Alaska, and Costa Rica has given me a broad vision for the future of North Central Washington. We have such a magical valley and I want to help enhance and protect it for future generations."
 

Elizabeth Wilson

Board Member

Elizabeth earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics (Central Washington University) and a Master’s Degree in Economic Geography (University of Washington).  After owning and operating a dance school for 10 years, she spent most of her career in commercial real estate, developing and redeveloping shopping centers, office buildings, residential plats and a marina. In the last 6 years, as Vice President of Olympic Property Group, the real estate division of a major timber company, she helped to preserve over 10,000 acres of forest lands by managing fee and easements conservation sales in Kitsap and Skamania Counties.  In doing so she coordinated with land trusts, funding agencies, government jurisdictions and community groups. As a retiree, Elizabeth has served on the Land’s Committee for 4 years, teaches ballet, golfs, and enjoys the tremendous vistas and recreation opportunities of North Central Washington.

“As a Board Member, I hope to contribute my skills to furthering the mission and adding to the considerable success of the Chelan Douglas Land Trust.  My husband and I love living here and I want to help preserve and care for the lands and waters of the area for future generations.”
 

John Eli Sirois

Board Member

John Eli Sirois - say' ay' (pronounced Sigh Eye) say' ay' is a citizen of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation and is of the respective Okanagan, Methow and Wenatchi Tribes. say’ay’ was born and raised on the Colville Indian Reservation in Omak, WA.  John carries cultural teachings and histories from his grandmother and extended family that tie him to the lands and waters of the greater Okanogan and Wenatchee Valley regions. John earned degrees from Dartmouth College (History, and Native American Studies) and Masters of Public Administration at the University of Washington. He worked for over 20 years in the Colville Tribes’ government as former Council Chair and representative, and he also led departments that focused on tribal lands, cultural preservation and revitalization, economic development, renewable energy project development, policy development, governance. John currently serves as the Traditional Territory Advisor for the Colville Confederated Tribes advocating for the Indigenous rights to ensure that those rights are fully respected. He harvests Chinook salmon at the Icicle every year and can be seen there every spring. He seeks to build a better future for all for generations to come.  You can find say’ay’ camping, hunting, hiking, reading and salmon fishing with his family.
 

Lacey Price

Board Member

Lacey graduated from Seattle Pacific University in 2007 with a degree in Communications and minor in Business Administration. After working on the communications team at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and living briefly in New Zealand, Lacey and her husband, Josh, came to the Wenatchee Valley in 2013. Lacey brings to CDLT over 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector including executive management, development, and program management. An avid arts and environmental enthusiast, Lacey helped lead Stage Kids as its Managing Director and coordinated the volunteer effort to preserve the Peshastin Mill Site for perpetual public access. Lacey has also served on the Peshastin Community Council, the Upper Valley Parks & Recreation District Board, and on grant making advisory boards for the Icicle Fund and Community Foundation of NCW. In her free time, Lacey enjoys hiking with her husband and two daughters, gardening, and playing tennis at the WRAC.

"Although we immediately fell in love with the natural beauty and outdoor recreation the Wenatchee Valley offers, we chose to make this special place our home because of the community of people we share it with—we feel as though we have found our tribe. I am grateful for the opportunity to carry forward the legacy of natural stewardship established by those who have come before us."

Leah Hemberry Ricketts

Board Member

Leah grew up in the Wenatchee Valley on a pear orchard near Peshastin. Her background as the third generation in a farming family led her to advocacy work focused on land use, immigration reform and preservation of agriculture in the Upper Valley. Leah has a lifelong love of the outdoors and our local rivers, having spent much of her free time hiking and exploring in the mountains. She currently serves on the Upper Columbia Salmon Recovery Board’s Chelan County Citizen Advisory Committee to assist in aiding in the recovery of our salmon, steelhead and other at-risk fish species. As a small business owner, her professional work has focused on marketing, content creation, and creative pursuits. Leah lives with her husband Russ and daughter Charlie in Leavenworth.

“As our region continues to grow and change, I believe the CDLT is in a unique position to continue to play an integral role in preserving the quality of life for people who live and play here, habitat for fish and wildlife, and open spaces for their intrinsic value. I am honored to be a part of this organization and excited to see what the future brings.” 

Steve Jacobs

Board Member

Steve Jacobs has lived in the Wenatchee Valley area since 1984 and moved to Leavenworth in 2002. Steve and his wife, Juli, love the outdoors and what it has to offer. They enjoy hiking, camping, running and cross country skiing. Steve is a CPA and semi-retired from Confluence Health and served as Controller and CFO for Central Washington Hospital and Vice President of Finance for Confluence Health. Steve has served on various boards including United Way and the Women’s Resource Center and currently serves as the public member of the Washington State Health Care Facilities Authority.

“We are fortunate to live in this special place and it is vital that this wonderland is preserved for current and future generations. The mission and activities of CDLT support this and I am honored to serve as a Board Member.”

Mike Mackey

Board Member

Michael brings a lifelong commitment to natural resource stewardship, public service, and community collaboration to the Chelan-Douglas Land Trust Board of Directors. With a degree in Range Management and Natural Resources from the University of Wyoming and a professional background that spans federal land management agencies and small business ownership, Michael’s leadership reflects both practical experience and deep local knowledge. Over the past 40 years in Chelan and Douglas Counties, he has served on numerous regional boards and commissions, always advocating for thoughtful land use, economic development, and community well-being. His work with local transportation, invasive species, and economic initiatives—combined with his ongoing community service—demonstrates a dedication to preserving the lands, resources, and rural character of North Central Washington.

Randy Asplund

Board Member

Randy Asplund is a long-time Wenatchee native who grew up hiking and skiing in the foothills around Wenatchee and the Cascade mountains of Chelan County.  Randy and his wife Cici Bean Asplund returned to the Wenatchee Valley in 1990 to be close to their families and raise their family.  Randy is a professional civil engineer and is a senior principal with the firm of RH2 Engineering.  As Randy transitions towards retirement, he is looking forward to putting his 38 years of engineering, planning and communication experience to practice with the Land Trust.  Randy has previously served on the Wenatchee City Planning Commission where he was the Commission chairperson for 6 years.  He is currently serving on the Washington State Community Economic Revitalization Board representing the seven counties located east of the Cascades and west of the Columbia River.

“As a 20-year participant in Land Trust activities and frequent hiker of the foothills, I look forward to serving on the Board and assisting as the Land Trust moves forward with new projects and opportunities.”
 

Catherine Waterston

Board Member

Catherine has called Wenatchee home since 2019. For over 15 years, she has been deeply involved in land conservation across the West. Her career began in California with the Peninsula Open Space Trust, where she focused on land stewardship. She then joined the Land Trust Alliance, where she supported conservation efforts across 19 western states and helped design, launch and manage programs in Oregon, Texas, Colorado and California. Today, Catherine continues her work in community-based conservation with The Nature Conservancy in Washington. In her free time, she enjoys exploring Washington by foot, bike, and paddleboard.

Steve Smith

Board Member

Steve Smith was raised in Waterville, WA, enjoying the local pool in the summer, working on wheat farms, and enjoying sports activities during the school year. He graduated from Central Washington University with a teaching degree, then Gonzaga University with a law degree. He has practiced civil law in Wenatchee and Waterville since 1986. He was the City Attorney for Wenatchee for 20 years and still is the attorney for Waterville going on 37 years. He is married to Jessica Leigh Smith, going on 35 years, has two grown sons, and one grandson.

“I have worked with the Land Trust on behalf of clients over the years on its efforts to preserve the Wenatchee foothills and lands of environmental significance in Douglas County. I have always admired the mission and collaborative efforts of the Land Trust to accomplish its mission. I have a passion for undeveloped open space and I hope my skills and experience help further its work.”

Lexine Long

Board Member

Lexine Long is a Senior Planner with the Washington State Department of Commerce, serving in the Growth Management Services unit within the Local Government Division, where she assists local governments in comprehensive planning. In addition to her land-use planning expertise, Lexine Long brings an academic and professional background in ecology and conservation. She holds a master’s degree in Ecology and Bioregional Planning from Utah State University, where her research focused on invasive wetland species and ecosystem management. She has undergraduate degrees in Environmental Science and Community, Environment, and Planning from the University of Washington. Her scientific work is complemented by extensive field experience across the western United States and knowledge of north central Washington’s ecosystems. Her family has deep ties to the region, with both of her parents having grown up in the Entiat Valley. She is grateful to call the Wenatchee Valley home for the past ten years, and in her free time, can usually be found enjoying time outside with her family.

“I’ve always really admired the work that CDLT does, and think it is a tremendous asset to our community. I am honored for the opportunity to serve on the Board, and to help support land conservation and stewardship goals in our region.”

Todd Kiesz

Legal Counsel

Born in Eugene, Oregon, Todd earned his law degree from the University of Washington and joined the Wenatchee firm of Jeffers, Danielson, Sonn and Aylward in 1996. His practice areas include estate planning, real estate, corporate and commercial law. Together with his wife Amy and their four children ages five through eleven, he enjoys being part of this community and has been actively involved in different community charities and events through the years. His favorite outdoor pursuits include skiing, biking, running and windsurfing. Todd was awarded special recognition at our 2011 Annual Dinner for his outstanding effort navigating CDLT through the legal issues of complicated land transactions. He has served as Legal Counsel for the Land Trust since 1998.

“I very much enjoy the opportunity to be involved in our community helping to secure the natural resources for the enjoyment of future generations.”