The trio’s diverse backgrounds in community engagement, fundraising, conservation, land protection, education and more will help Huron Pines carry out its mission to conserve and enhance Northern Michigan’s natural resources.

Among its priorities in 2025, Huron Pines is engaging with Alpena on its Source Water Intake Protection plan to educate residents on ways to protect the health of Lake Huron — the source of the community’s drinking water — and is collaborating with Alpena Public Schools in an effort to reduce stormwater runoff from the high school parking lot.

Huron Pines is also developing a watershed management plan for the 1,382-square-mile Thunder Bay Watershed, identifying threats to its water health and ways to address them.

“As we start a new year, Huron Pines is focused on expanding our conservation impact, enhancing our educational programs and increasing collaboration with local governments and community organizations,” said Executive Director Brad Jensen. “Having an expanded and diverse board helps us take on more ambitious, sustainable efforts in land protection, habitat restoration, community education and more.”

Sam Burckhardt

Born and raised in Switzerland, Burckhardt was immersed in natural studies at a young age through his father’s conservation work. Burckhardt served on the Chicago Ornithological Society board for several years and initiated a program with Chicago Public Schools to introduce grade-school students to birds. He is a member of AuSable Valley Audubon and the Kirtland’s Warbler Conservation Team and is secretary of Michigan Audubon. His extensive musical background includes tours with Chicago blues artist Sunnyland Slim, recording with his own band the Mighty Blue Kings, and performances with many blues and jazz greats. Burckhardt resides in East Tawas with his husband.

Erwin practiced corporate law and later earned her master’s degree in social work, specializing in therapy for teenagers. She served on nonprofit boards for Chicago Chamber Musicians and Lincoln Park Community Shelter and has raised funds for U-M Law School. Most recently she was a social worker for Alcona Health Center and Alcona Middle/High School until retirement. She volunteers with recycling efforts in Alcona County and in the Home Arts building during the annual county fair. Erwin resides in Harrisville with her husband.

Ratliff is vice president and director of major programs for Greenwood Foundation, a private operating foundation committed to the permanent protection of a 2,000-acre wilderness area near Wolverine for education and study of nature. He previously worked for Little Traverse Conservancy for over 23 years, leading fundraising efforts and partnering with nonprofit organizations and local governments to preserve lands throughout northern Michigan. He resides in Petoskey and enjoys hiking and exploring with his wife and children.

“Sam, Katherine and Ty are all excellent additions to the Huron Pines board,” said Associate Director Lisha Ramsdell. “They bring a shared passion for conservation and each of their unique backgrounds make our organization even stronger as we work to preserve and protect Northern Michigan’s natural resources.”

Ty Ratliff