Underneath
beautiful blue skies, the Oakland Nature Preserve (ONP) held their annual open
house on Saturday, February 16th. This annual fundraising event brings
together staff, volunteers, donors and visitors to share the beauty and wonder
of ONP and to raise funds to benefit the preserve.
ONP main check-in table
Throughout
the day, ONP hosted a Bird Hike, a Restoration Walk and an Edible Plant Hike, and
many activities for the kids. Also present were representatives from Turtle
& Tortoise Club, Bugs and Bugs, Lake Louisa State Park (snake exhibit), and
the Green Mountain Scenic Byway.
Christi Diaz Hunt leads the Edible Plant Hike
Friendly the gopher tortoise joined the festivities.
The
highlight of the day was special recognition for Jim Thomas who played a major
role in forming the Oakland Nature Preserve which was incorporated in 1997. People
came from far and near to pay their respects and a tribute plaque dedicating
the ONP Education Center to Mr. Thomas was unveiled. Oakland Mayor Kathy Stark
issued a proclamation for February 16, 2019, as “Jim Thomas Day” in the Town of
Oakland. We would like to thank Jim Thomas for his outstanding work on behalf of the environment and the Oakland Nature Preserve!
Mayor Stark reads proclamation.
Jim Thomas
Oakland Nature Preserve's website contains additional information about upcoming events and opportunities to become involved.