Volunteer Success Stories

Thanks to Brian Gullen, a student in the Natural Resource and Environmental Law program at Lewis and Clark College, The Wetlands Conservancy's property files have all been organized, reviewed, standardized and updated.  Brian volunteered more than 160 hours meticulously reviewing all 35 of TWC's property files, separating stewardship and legal records and properly filing and labeling all of the records. TWC hopes all the detailed ins and outs of land transactions provide a great foundation for Brian's future law work!

Galen Griffin has been volunteering weekly with Tualatin Riverkeepers since April 2007.  Each Friday, Galen works diligently on mailings and data entry projects.  Galen states, “I have cared for the natural environment all my life and for me [volunteering] is the best way I can exercise that philosophy."

"Galen is an exceptional volunteer. His work is tedious, yet he does it with accuracy and smile on his face," says Monica Smiley, Tualatin Riverkeeper Executive Director. "Dedicated volunteers like Galen make it possible for TRK to continue our diverse programs with minimal staff."

Barb and Thor Wegner, volunteers at The Nature Conservancy, have dedicated over 2,300 hours since 1998 to Camassia Natural Area in West Linn.  The husband and wife team regularly pull invasive species, picking  up litter and educating visitors. "Barbara and Thor's dedication to Camassia has helped reestablish a healthy preserve," said Jonathan Soll, Willamette Basin conservation director.

Octogenarian Nancy Menken has surveyed and planted native species, fixed fences and more.  "Nancy digs into any project with unending gusto and keen wit," said Molly Sullivan, The Nature Conservancy southwest Oregon stewardship coordinator. She has endured long days in the rain, cold and heat to record accurate data on a palm top computer. “You have to work at conservation bit by bit to make a difference,” Nancy explains.

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