On October 27 at the site of the Greene Valley Hawkwatch, Erik Neidy (Director, Natural Resources Management, DuPage Forest Preserve District,) and Cindy Hedges (Stewardship Program Coordinator) presented DBC member Bob Fisher with a plaque acknowledging the many contributions he and his late wife Karen have made in support of the Forest Preserve’s goals. The surprise ceremony was attended by Scott Meister (Manager of Natural Resources) many hawkwatch volunteers, and friends of Bob from DuPage Birding Club, including President Steve Constantelos and Natalie McFaul, Vice-President.
Over the last 25 years, Karen and Bob monitored birds at Waterfall Glen and Woodridge Forest Preserves. During this time, Bob and Karen were instrumental in the founding of the hawkwatch, conducted Breeding Bird Surveys, and completed a Pines Study at Waterfall Glen. Erik also acknowledged Bob’s frequent and selfless speaking engagements and instructional talks to the staff and the Board of Directors; his persistent advocacy on behalf of birds, wildlife, and conservation efforts of the Natural Resources Management department; and his willingness to pick up the phone and make personal contact to work with others and reach goals. Bob also consulted with the district to install the least-impactful trails at Oldfield Oaks Forest Preserve.