Douglas Rotarians enjoyed an engaging program as wildlife biologist Dirk Stevenson shared highlights from decades of field work focusing on the Coastal Plain of the southeastern United States. Prior to establishing the Altamaha Environmental Consulting a decade ago (see www.altamahaec.com ), he worked with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, The Nature Conservancy, the Department of Defense, and The Orianne Society. Among his recent professional recognitions, he received the 2024 Southeast Partners in Amphibian−Reptile Conservation Hero Award.
Fellow naturalist extraordinaire Frankie Snow attended the program presented by his longtime friend with whom he has collaborated on scores of projects. He noted that, “Dirk is a remarkable field biologist whose work continues to significantly advance our understanding and appreciation of this area’s unique native animals and plants. We have learned so much from him.”
Jim Cottingham added that Dirk’s contributions as a skilled field researcher and environmental consultant are greatly enhanced by his extraordinary talents in photography and writing. He communicates effectively with both the scholarly community and casual nature enthusiasts.
As a salute to Stevenson’s and Snow’s decades of work, Douglas Rotary made a financial donation to The Nature Conservancy to be used to advance the work at the Broxton Rocks Preserve in Coffee and Jeff Davis Counties.
Lee Taylor’s induction as the newest member of Rotary International was a highlight of the weekly meeting at the SGSC Alumni House. He was welcomed to the Club by Membership Co-Chair Clay Lott and his sponsor, Paul Elliott. Lee is Douglas Market President for Colony Bank. He is married to Courtney Darwin Taylor, and they are the proud parents of Grayson, Whitley, and Kellan.
Douglas Rotary is a local service organization seeking to advance the ideals of Rotary International by investing time and resources in programs for children and youth, community development, disease prevention, family support, environmental health, and leadership development. Rotary meets most Thursdays from noon to 1:00 pm in Douglas at the South Georgia State College Alumni House. Visitors and community members interested in personal and professional growth through community service are welcome. For more information, please reach out to Clay Lott at 912-327-1921, Paul Elliott at 912-850-9631, or Mark Miller at 540-321-8191.
Photo credit April Merritt