Linda Dwyer

Director of Operations
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Linda is a member of the Algonquin community of Kitigàn Zìbì Anishinàbeg, situated in southwestern Quebec. A forester by training, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource Management–Forestry and a Master’s degree in Forest Conservation. For over 19 years, Linda worked in natural resource management within her First Nation, overseeing the Natural Resource and Wildlife Office in Kitigàn Zìbì Anishinàbeg. During this time, she developed and managed federal and provincial projects and contracts, including species at risk projects, commercial and non-commercial silviculture activities, harvesting, commercial sugar bush operations, and the development of a Guardian Program.

As Director of Operations at ILI, Linda enjoys supporting First Nations and Indigenous communities on their path toward Indigenous-led conservation. Drawing from her own experience working within her First Nation, she understands the importance of supporting communities in developing their own conservation priorities, building local capacity, and creating opportunities for First Nations to lead the stewardship and protection of their lands and waters.

In the development of her community’s Guardian Program, the experience has shaped her understanding of the important role that Indigenous Guardians play in monitoring, protecting, and caring for their territories while bringing together Indigenous knowledge, community priorities, and land-based experience.

Linda has a strong connection to the land and a love of animals and enjoys spending time on the land and learning from it. Her work is guided by her belief that healthy lands mean healthy people, and by her commitment to supporting First Nations as they strengthen their capacity to care for and protect their lands, waters, and communities for generations to come.