Pocatello native named to Teton Regional Land Trust

A veteran conservationist has been named Land Protection Director for the Teton Regional Land Trust in Driggs. Joselin Matkins comes to the position after five years as Executive Director of the Sagebrush Steppe Land Trust in Pocatello.

She has served as Chair of the Idaho Coalition of Land Trusts since 2009.

“We are delighted that Joselin is joining our team,” Teton Regional Land Trust Executive Director Chet Work said, “We’ve partnered with her on numerous conservation efforts over the years and look forward to the experience and understanding she brings to the position.”

Work said Matkins would play an important role as the Land Trust prepares to accommodate expanded federal tax incentives and increases in available funds for purchasing easements. The Teton Regional Land Trust plans to surpass 30,000 acres of protected farms and ranches in eastern Idaho this year.

Matkins is a fourth generation Idahoan, whose family homesteaded in the Roberts-Mud Lake area. She was born in Pocatello and grew up in the Wood River Valley.

She said she has admired the work of the Land Trust. “They are undoubtedly the most successful community-based land trust in Idaho, and it is an honor to become part of their team,” said Matkins.

She will replace Babette Thorpe, who transitioned to become Major Gifts Director for the Land Trust.