Rockford, Ill. – Natural Land Institute (NLI) is pleased to announce that Kyle Hulbert has been promoted to Director of Land Stewardship for the nationally accredited conservation land trust. Hulbert formerly held the position of Natural Resources Technician at NLI since June 2024.
Kyle Hulbert, Director of Land Stewardship, at Nygren Wetland Preserve. Photo by Grace Wieland
“Kyle’s enthusiasm for NLI and its lands’ stewardship is infectious and inspires staff, volunteers, and members to participate and support our mission,” said Executive Director Alan Branhagen. He goes on to say, “Kyle understands what it takes to manage natural lands: trained staff, inspired and well-informed volunteers, safe and efficient equipment use, effective use of prescribed fire, careful invasive species control, and reverence for the flora and fauna we are managing habitat for.”
Kyle Hulbert, Director of Land Stewardship, on the trail at Pecatonica Ridge Preserve during the Dark Sky Bonfire and S’mores Open House on Jan. 21, 2026. Photo by Patrick Yarbrough
Hulbert officially started his new role on Jan. 16, 2026. As Director of Land Stewardship. Hulbert will oversee management of 3,500 acres of land owned by NLI with restoration and stewardship activities, the stewardship staff and volunteers. He has worked in land management since 2018 and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Geography and Environmental Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Hulbert holds certificates for prescribed fire, herbicide application, tree felling, and is an experienced machine operator. He has experience leading teams of volunteers and interns.
Kyle Hulbert (left) with Grace Wieland (2nd from left), NLI Field Biologist and volunteers at a recent workday held at Lost Flora Fen on Raccoon Creek (Rockton, IL). Photo by Barbara Williams
Hulbert said, “The relationships I have built over the last 18 months at NLI are incredibly valuable to me, both professionally and personally. I am excited to continue working with these people on natural spaces across Illinois and the Midwest.”