Conservation Behind the Scenes
October 28, 2021
Meet TLA's Lynnsey Basala
WHAT DO YOU DO WITH THE LONGLEAF ALLIANCE?
I am the Vice President for Development, providing executive leadership, strategic direction, and management of all fundraising efforts, including foundation partnerships, individual and corporate donor campaigns/events, records management, and fiscal accountability.
HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN CONSERVATION?
I pivoted from nonprofit national health organizational development work to the conservation field when I relocated to the Lowcountry in South Carolina seven years ago.
WHAT IS ONE OF YOUR BEST MOMENTS ON THE JOB?
My favorite week on the job was the 2016 Biennial Longleaf Conference in Savannah, GA when I got to the witness the regional event firsthand and interact with conservation partners and members in-person for the first time. There was a lot hugging and comradery, which fuels my passion for development.
WHAT’S SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU?
Even though I am a born and raised Midwesterner, I feel most myself and at peace in Charleston, SC. Put me in a kayak and serve me fresh seafood on Shem Creek, and I am living my best life.
WHAT DO YOU WISH PEOPLE UNDERSTOOD ABOUT LONGLEAF?
A majestic longleaf stand roots itself into all five senses. It is the rich soil under your nails; plumes of smoke rising from the canopy; flora grazing your pantlegs; the ‘churt’ of a RCW flying into a roosting area; grasping a sapling and allowing its needles to slip between your fingers, and so much more. My hope is for everyone to experience longleaf with childlike wonder.
The people living and working in longleaf pine have a diversity of jobs, backgrounds, personal experiences, and interests. The People of Longleaf series strives to share these voices so that everyone interested in longleaf feels welcome, respected, and valued for the perspectives they bring to the table.
Just as every tract of land and habitat is unique, so are The Longleaf Alliance staff and the people we serve.