Meet the Team

Hi, I’m Lindsay and I’m the Manager at the Loch Ken Trust.

My job is really varied, which I love — one day I might be buried in admin and the next I’ll be out on patrol or helping out with a ranger education session. There’s never a dull day!

The best part of the role for me is working with local primary schools, helping young people learn how to enjoy the outdoors safely and look after this amazing place for the future. I also really enjoy working with partners on the Youth Water Safety Awareness Programme.

I was born in Dumfries and have lived around Castle Douglas for over 18 years, so Loch Ken feels very close to home. When I’m not working, I’m usually outside with my family — hiking, running, kayaking or cycling. I’ve spent loads of time paddling on and cycling around Loch Ken and know just how special it is. I feel really lucky to work in a place I love, alongside such brilliant local communities.

Hi, I’m Leanne, Head Ranger for the Loch Ken Trust. My role is wonderfully varied, and no two days are ever the same. I spend my time on everything from land and water patrols to delivering education sessions on caring for the environment, promoting water safety, and helping people enjoy the loch responsibly.

My background is in education and child protection, areas that continue to be my passion.

On a personal note, I live at the north end of the loch and feel deeply connected to the community. I love spending time outdoors with my family — we have grown-up children and a growing tribe of little humans, with five grandchildren and counting! You’ll often find us having beach days, swimming, paddling, or walking. I even enjoy an occasional cold-water dip when I’m feeling brave.

Hello, I’m Rachael, and I’m really excited to have recently joined Loch Ken Trust as Ranger Volunteer Coordinator.

I’m someone who truly believes in the power of community — in people feeling welcomed, heard, and valued — and this role brings together so many things I care deeply about: nature, connection, inclusion, and meaningful volunteering. Being part of a place like Loch Ken, which holds so much natural beauty and community significance, feels incredibly special.

Hi, I’m Ed, and I am this year’s Seasonal Ranger for the Loch Ken Trust. My job for the summer will be to work beside the rest of the team as we try to make our little corner of the world an even better place to live, work and visit.

Born in this area my history with the water goes back nearly four decades. Over the years I have sailed, rowed, paddled and driven about in all sorts of boats both for fun and work. I’ve been known to go swimming occassionaly in the Dee’s dark waters and even managed to win the local triathlon once.

As an outdoor instructor for 20 years I had the privilege of showing countless youngsters how much fun they could have in the great outdoors in a safe and respectful way. I look forward to sharing the same message with a new audience this summer.