LENOX, Mass. — Berkshire Natural Resources Council (BNRC) announced the appointment of Grace Enchill, Chuck Leach, and Victoria Mills to its Board of Directors. 

 

In addition, local leader and previous member Timothy T. Crane returns to the Board. 

 

Grace Enchill brings a specialized legal perspective to the board. An attorney with Heller & Robbins PC in Lenox, Enchill focuses her practice on real estate, land use, and zoning. Her professional path in law and land conservation began twelve years ago when she first moved to the Berkshires, working for longtime board member and lawyer, F. Sydney Smithers. 

 

"My practice has given me a unique appreciation of how closely our community is connected to the land, its history, and its resources," Enchill said. "I am thrilled and honored to have this opportunity to support BNRC's work to conserve the landscapes that define and sustain this region."

 

Joining the board from the regional financial sector, Chuck Leach brings extensive experience in mission-driven growth. As President and CEO of Lee Bank, Leach oversaw the formation of the Lee Bank Foundation and launched the bank's financial wellness and wealth management platforms. A frequent hiker on BNRC's trail network, Leach is deeply involved in the Berkshire community. 

 

"My family and I have long enjoyed the incredible trail network and natural spaces that BNRC helps protect and steward. Having free and open access to such a high-quality network of trails is an invaluable resource for people across our community, and it's something that makes this area truly special," said Leach. "I'm honored to join the board and support an organization that plays such a critical role in preserving and expanding these opportunities for everyone."

 

Victoria Mills rounds out the new appointments with a career steeped in environmental advocacy. Mills spent 26 years at the Environmental Defense Fund and continues her public service today as a member of the Canaan, NY Town Council and co-chair of the Climate Smart Task Force. An avid hiker, Mills advocates for making the outdoors accessible to everyone.

 

"BNRC has done extraordinary work to conserve critical landscapes in the Berkshires," said Mills. "I'm excited to join the board and help carry that legacy forward – protecting lands that sustain biodiversity, strengthen climate resilience and keep the natural beauty of this area accessible to all."

 

In addition to the new appointments, BNRC welcomes Timothy T. Crane back to the Board. He previously served on the Board for 22 years, including 10 as Board Chair. Tim is now retired after a career at Crane & Co. He and his wife, the poet Patty Crane, live in Windsor and have linked conservation easements on their property into the vast state-owned wildlife management properties on the Berkshire plateau. He first joined the Board of Directors in 2000.

 

"It is great to be back on the BNRC board after my one-year mandatory hiatus," said Crane. "Now, having attended my first board meeting of 2026, I am reminded of the commitment to BNRC's mission, displayed by staff, board, volunteers, and donors."

 

"BNRC is delighted to welcome Victoria, Chuck, and Grace to their new roles, and to welcome Tim back to the board," said BNRC President Jenny Hansell. "Each brings valuable expertise and a deep commitment to BNRC's mission of caring for the Berkshires' natural spaces. Their leadership will strengthen BNRC's ability to serve our community and conserve land for years to come."