Linda Besio has worked in the environmental education field for 27 years, starting as a NYS Parks Recreation Aid. She began working for the Friends of the Robert Moses Park Nature Center in 2011, after a 2010 fire destroyed the State Park facility and original nature center. The replacement, Nicandri Nature Center (a NYSOEA Affiliate), opened in 2017 and is one of the gems of the North Country. Linda continues to work for the Friends of the Nature Center as a Naturalist. Linda has lived in Massena, NY her entire life and really enjoys being outside no matter what season. She comes from a family of 9 children and spent most of my childhood living in a home surrounded by 4 acres of wooded land.

Linda is a “Mom” to an 1 year old Shorkie named Tucker.  Love for the outdoors and the love of all animals makes this the perfect job for her.

Michael is a local who graduated from SUNY Potsdam in 2023 with a Bachelors of Science Degree in Biochemistry and a minor in Sustainability. His fascination with nature and wildlife is a driving force, one which he uses to teach those who pop in for a visit. Always wearing a smile and interested to meet new people to hear their stories.  He joined the staff of the Nature Center earlier this year. (2025)

Joel Danko is a long time nature enthusiast who used to visit the old nature center when he was a child. He graduated SUNY Oswego with a bachelors degree in a science program.

Joel joined the nature center staff team in 2011 and served as the Facility and Trails Manager until early 2022. Now he works part time, helping us with big projects and programs, so that he can spend more time with his family now that he is a dad of two!

Joel’s favorite programs to teach are: swamp school, outdoor survival, and cross country skiing.

When not working, Joel loves outdoor activities including snowboarding, fishing, and canoeing. He also is a very involved paint ball enthusiast.

Mason is from Massena where he graduated in 2023.  He attended North Country Community College and graduated in the spring of 2025 with a degree in Environmental Science.  He is currently enrolled in Paul Smith’s College where he is pursuing a degree in Fish and Wildlife.  He started as a volunteer in the summer of 2024 where he enjoyed his days on the trails.  As a staff  member this year (2025) he is keeping the trails clear as well as making sure our trail cams are catching the good videos.

Tucker is last year’s recipient of the Peter J. Sainola scholarship. He is currently enrolled in SUNY Potsdam’s Geology program, and is excited to join their Wildlife Education program as well. When Tucker isn’t at the Nicandri Nature Center, he enjoys going to concerts, kayaking, and doing adventure ropes courses. Tucker has found a passion for crafting at the nature center this year, even earning the title of The Craft King!