Dale Dunford joined the Land Conservancy in early 2021, stepping into the role of Parks and Preserves Manager. This move coincided with the organization’s exciting launch of several Signature Parks to the public. As the first individual to take on the position, Dale embarked on a journey to oversee and nurture these unique natural spaces.
Having grown up in a rural area, Dale has always pursued his passion of being in the outdoors whether that is enjoying natural areas in his spare time or working to see positive and beneficial changes to our natural world. He values restoring degraded properties to a more natural setting and providing opportunities for people in our region to view our natural areas.
Dale’s commitment to conservation has allowed him to gain a variety of skills not only through his formal education at Kent State University with a degree in Organismal Biology but also through his desire to learn from others. At the Land Conservancy, Dale has completed multiple restoration projects including wetland restorations, pollinator plantings, and reforestation of natural areas.
Prior to working at the Land Conservancy, Dale worked for an environmental consultant for eight years where his primary focus was on freshwater mussels. He completed a variety of mussel survey and relocations as a federally permitted aquatic biologist in settings from small streams to Lake Erie and the Mississippi River. In his previous role, he was also able to assist in environmental clean-ups of train derailments, wetland/stream restorations, invasive species management, and various aquatic surveys.
Dale lives in Rome, Ohio with his wife, Megan and their two children. He enjoys hunting with his children and friends along with his two dogs, Ruby and Tessa.