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Robert Armstrong
Contact: Visitor Contact Station, 678-538-1200 Director Jarvis visited the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area during the Southeast Region Leadership Conference, on April 20th. In celebration of National Park Week, the director joined a group of 95 Fifth graders from the Westminster School and participated in an environmental education field study. The students were investigating a small stream in a forested ravine beside the historic Hewlett Lodge. Using nets, hand lens, and field microscopes, the kids found and identified a wide array of aquatic organisms. Pointing to the surrounding forest, the Director noted its filtering role in protecting water quality. The Director addressed the students, park staff and volunteers in the great room of park headquarters’ historic log lodge overlooking the river. During the reception, he related to the students his experiences with the National Park Service and spoke about the importance of the national parks. Director Jarvis also presented VIP Maureen Donohue with an engraved, hand carved walking stick. Ms. Donohue is the recipient of the park’s Jack Sweitzer VIP of the Year Award. Her volunteer hours and efforts in always taking a lead role in trail maintenance, exotic plant removal, interpretation, and special events have been a very valuable asset to the park. The award is named in honor of the late Jack Sweitzer, whose extraordinary legacy of volunteerism in the park is held as an example for all to follow. It was an exciting day for the students of Westminster School, the park staff and volunteers to celebrate National Park Week with Director Jarvis. |
Last updated: April 14, 2015