The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is saddened by the death of current board member Michael L. Marziale. Mike passed away unexpectedly on October 24. Elected to ATC’s board of directors in July of this year, Mike was instrumental in laying the foundation for the Tree as a Crop project that has led to the planting of over 1300 trees at Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s Kellogg Conservation Center in partnership with NewPage Corporation and Rodale Inc. with support from Rodale Institute and Echo Power Equipment. He was particularly interested in assisting in ATC’s mission to steward the lands we have worked so diligently to protect.

Mike offered a keen intellect, a strategic perspective, and a demonstrated ability to garner support for the Trail. He was genuinely impressed by the enthusiasm and knowledge of the staff as well as the kindness extended by the members and volunteers he met during the recent Virginia Journeys 2011 biennial.

A memorial service is scheduled for November 12 in the Dayton, Ohio area. Our thoughts of peace and gratitude go out to Mike’s family.