As we move through the month of gratitude, we would like to take some time to recognize Black Swamp Conservancy’s most dedicated volunteer: Rick Bryan. This year marks Rick’s 15th year as a volunteer monitor for the Conservancy and we couldn’t be more thankful for him.
The work Rick has done during his volunteer career is no easy task. Volunteer monitoring requires dedicated time, knowledge, and commitment—all of which Rick has in spades. Over the last 15 years, we have relied on Rick to support our monitoring team in visiting any property—from agricultural, public parks, private natural areas, and coastal marshes. As the season comes to a close, Rick will have conducted 100 site visits and nearly 200 hours of monitoring over the course of his time here at the Conservancy.
“With over 166 easements, the capacity he helps build for our team is invaluable,” says Ellie Schiappa, Conservation Associate for the Conservancy, “We really can’t thank him enough.”
While he could have certainly fooled anyone who asked, Rick’s career was not previously in natural resources. Now retired, Rick has dedicated his free time and now his “second career” in retirement to the protection of nature in northwest Ohio. He has been a long-time volunteer for almost every conservation group in Lucas County: The Nature Conservancy, Green Ribbon Initiative, Oak Openings Region Conservancy, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Division of Natural Areas and Preserves, and more. The amount of experience Rick has would surely qualify him to do a little more bragging about the work he’s accomplished, yet Rick would sooner greet you with a humble joke than to boast his accomplishments. He has always found a way to make people feel comfortable and included; sharing his knowledge with a welcoming smile and easy laugh with volunteers and staff members alike.
“When thinking about Rick, one of the things that immediately comes to mind is how approachable he is and how he makes time to connect with others,” says Scarlet Rice, Land Steward for the Conservancy. Everyone on the team echoes her sentiments. “He is always ready with a smile or a lighthearted comment, bringing a positive energy to any group.”
Beyond our easement monitoring program, Rick is widely involved in the Conservancy and supportive of our mission. From serving on our critical Stewardship Committee, to volunteer stewardship days, and helping at events, Rick never fails to show up and support the work we do, no matter the capacity.
It is with our deepest gratitude that we send our biggest thank you to Rick Bryan. Thank you for your dedication to protecting nature across northwest Ohio. We’re so happy you chose to spend a portion of your “second career” with us and we’re so glad to be able to celebrate your accomplishments!
Interested in becoming a volunteer monitor or looking for other ways to get involved? Learn more about our volunteer program!
