ANNUAL REPORT Delaware Nature Society
2007
Our 44th year of commitment to Environmental Education, Natural Resources Conservation, Preservation & Advocacy
2007 FULL TIME STAFF Michael Riska, Executive Director Linda Chambers, Associate Director, Development & Marketing Helen Fischel, Associate Director, Education Jennifer Gochenaur, Associate Director, Natural Resources Conservation Judy Petterson, Assistant to the Director David Toman, Associate Director, Business & Finance James White, Associate Director, Land & Biodiversity Management Jason Beale, Abbott’s Mill Nature Center Manager John Harrod, Backyard Habitat Coordinator Judy Montgomery, School Overnight & Outreach Coordinator Ginger North, Stream Watch Coordinator David Pragoff, School and Public Programs Team Leader Dave Pro, Ashland Land and Facilities Steward Joe Sebastiani, Members Program Team Leader Margot Chalfant, Land Preservation Coordinator
The Delaware Nature Society, a nonprofit member-
Joanne Ulp, Membership and Annual Giving Coordinator
ship organization, fosters understanding, appreciation
Sheila Vincent, Group Program Coordinator
and enjoyment of the natural world through education,
Michele Wales, Coverdale Farm Program Coordinator
preserves ecologically significant areas, and advocates
Jim Wolfer, Coverdale Farm Steward
stewardship and conservation of natural resources.
2007 PART TIME STAFF Jean Beattie, Office Assistant
We maintain three main program and experiential
Cristy Beckman, Public Affairs Coordinator
sites: Ashland Nature Center in Hockessin, Coverdale
Nora Childers, Abbott’s Mill Lead Teacher
Farm in Greenville and Abbott’s Mill Nature Center
Carol Leshem, Bookkeeper/Accountant
(with its preserved, working mill) in Milford. We own or manage more than 1000 acres of wildlife habitat for
Melissa McDerby, Program Registrar Glynne Nagle, Education and Administrative Assistant Koren Olinger, Abbott’s Mill Office Assistant
education and biodiversity, such as Burrows Run and
Derek Stoner, Members Program Assistant, Middle Run Coordinator
Flint Woods Preserves in New Castle County, Marvel
Kelly Stringham, Volunteer Coordinator
Saltmarsh Preserve and areas of the Milford Millponds
Stephanie Sturmfels, Marketing Coordinator
Nature Preserve in Sussex County and land sur-
Elliott Workman, Abbott’s Mill Land and Facility Coordinator
rounding Cooch-Dayett Mills in Newark. Additionally, DNS is the Delaware affiliate of the National Wildlife Federation (NWF), offering input on national issues
DIRECTORS (As of 12/31/2007)
that concern citizens in our region.
President Peter H. Flint
Our nature centers and preserves serve as regional
Vice President Thomas C. Shea, Jr.
hubs for environmental activities in every season. Individuals, school students, teachers and community groups increase their awareness of the natural world through our programs.
Secretary Richmond L. Williams Treasurer David Harrison Members Barbara Borleske Theresa V. Brown-Edwards Bonnie Copeland Audrey Doberstein Deloris D. Donnelly David M. Ferguson
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George M. Fisher, IV Richard A. Fleming Peter H. Flint Richard H. Frederick Rodney Galentine David M. Gobris Henry Greenewalt Diane Gulyas David Harrison Terrance L. Higgins Gregory Inskip Marion McC. Lassen Lillian M. Lowery Crawford MacKeand W. Michael McCabe Wesley L. McNealy Emil Mikity Elizabeth S. E. Moran Christopher S. Patterson Seth Ross Thomas C. Shea, Jr. Dale Stratton
Sharon Struthers Lowell T. Underhill Richmond L. Williams Maryann Younger Honorary Board Members Howard P. Brokaw Bernard S. Dempsey Lorraine M. Fleming Nancy G. Frederick Norman G. Wilder Lynn W. Williams Associate Board Members Sumner Crosby, III Gordon Fisher Carmen Lee Pow
www.delawarenaturesociety.org
2007: Preparing for the Future The Delaware Nature Society made great strides over the past year in fulfilling its mission to foster understanding, appreciation, and enjoyment of the natural world through education; preserve ecologically significant areas; and advocate stewardship and conservation of natural resources. Fundraising Remained Strong in ‘07 Utilizing a $12,000 annual giving challenge made by a generous donor, annual giving reached an alltime high of $259,366.65, an increase of more than $28,000 from 2006. The Capital Development Program raised $212,410 for a total of $1,664,000 as of December 31, 2007 for the Coverdale Farm expansion. Reaching New Heights A Hawk Watch was established at Ashland Nature Center as a joint project with the Delmarva Mike Riska, Executive Director Ornithological Society. From September through November, more than 6,200 raptors and 153 total species were observed (including other migrating birds in addition to the expected raptors), and the Watch had more than 280 visitors! Expanded Marketing for Expanded Reach Publications across the board, including the Nature’s Voice Newsletter and program brochures, have been improved and enhanced by changes to layout, design, style, and printing processes. These changes have not only allowed for greater readability, but we are printing using environmentally-friendly options. Three new businesses have joined the Delaware Nature Society as retail affiliates. They are: Quest Fitness & Kayak in Milford, East Coast Garden Center in Millsboro, and Wild About Birds in Ocean View. We welcome them aboard and encourage our members to take advantage of their member discounts available at all of our retail affiliates, which also include: Harvest Market, Gateway Garden Center and Everything but the Kitchen Sink, all in Hockessin.
Looking Ahead and Leaping Forward
Peter Flint, President
Coverdale Farm Expansion We are excited about our progress in the expansion of Coverdale Farm. In 2007, we removed the pole barn, which helped restore the historic appearance of the farm. The building of the Farm Operations Center (containing farm equipment storage space, a small office area, and a manure shed) began. Also completed was much of the site work for the Farm Yard (containing poultry, swine and sheep sheds), and infrastructure for the Education Center modifications incorporating Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) space. Partial funding was received in 2007 for the start of the CSA in Spring 2010. In addition to offering consumers a variety of locally grown, organic, healthy alternatives to products from commercial retailers, the CSA will provide an outlet to expand farm-based and nutrition education programming. Looking ahead, the next building phase will include the Education Center, with its CSA space, classrooms, restrooms, teaching kitchen, and office space.
Moving to the Wilmington Riverfront The Delaware Nature Society has been chosen to operate the nature center to be built at the Russell W. Peterson Urban Wildlife Refuge on the riverfront in Wilmington. The center is scheduled to be complete approximately 14 months from ground breaking anticipated to occur in May 2008. In 2007, DNS began planning educational and other community outreach programming as well as staffing and operational needs. Furthering our Reach at Cooch-Dayett Mills Through a partnership with the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, the Delaware Nature Society began operations at Cooch-Dayett Mills in Newark in fall 2007. In the pilot program, more than 125 children participated, with increased programming in 2008. Looking ahead, two week-long programs have been planned for summer 2008. Preserving Land Around Abbott’s Mill We are very pleased with our preservation efforts working with the Conservation Fund, Mt. Cuba Center, Inc. and the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife in the area around Abbott’s Mill Nature Center. This work resulted in the establishment of the 313-acre Millford Millponds Nature Preserve. Helping restore the historic integrity of Abbott’s Mill by permanently preserving the natural landscape of the area, it includes the Morton Property, located adjacent to the mill. Reviewing the accomplishments of 2007, we are truly excited about the prospects for the future including Coverdale Farm growth, Cooch-Dayett Mills programming, our expansion to the Wilmington Riverfront and preparing for Community Supported Agriculture, all enabling us to reach new audiences. Realizing none of it would be possible without our most important and vital assets: our dedicated volunteers (close to 1,000, whose hours are valued at $363,000!), our integral staff, and the committed leadership of our Board of Directors, we wish to take this opportunity to offer our most sincere thanks and appreciation. We look forward to continuing our progress in the future!
Peter H. Flint President
2007 Annual Report
Michael E. Riska Executive Director
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EDUCATION:
GM Boxwood Plant, Flower Market, Valero, DuPont Company
Achievements and Growth in Environmental Programs
offered through DNS.
Since its 1964 founding, the Delaware Nature Society has
Growth at Coverdale Farm
reached more than 1.3 million
people
of
all
and the Wilmington Rotary. Seven teachers participated in the Naturalist Certification Series, a 60 hour in-service credit program
In northern Delaware, Coverdale Farm’s expanded public visita-
ages
tion Farm Fun Day program reached 554 participants. 4,900
through its programs. In
school children participated in a hands-on experience on the
2007, the Delaware Nature
farm. In October, the annual Harvest Moon Festival greeted thou-
Society’s Education Depart-
sands of visitors, providing family fun for all.
ment welcomed more than 55,900 students, members, and guests to our programs. For the first time, pro-
Helen Fischel, Associate Director
gramming was offered for schools at Cooch-Dayett Mills and week long summer camps were held at the Granogue property and a Hawk Watch was established at Ashland Nature Center. Teachers Trained & Programs Revised More than 380 active and pre-service teachers trained with the Society staff through in-service and University of Delaware courses. School children from Wrangle Hill, Southern Elementary, St. Paul’s, and the Charter School of Wilmington enriched their science curriculum through programs thanks to the generosity of
VOLU N TE E RS Marcus Adams Mike Adams Ray Adams Colin Adamson Barbara Ahmed Don Ainsworth Marti Ainsworth Barbara Aldinger Michele Alexander Rebecca Alexander Stanley Alexander Aziza Alimova Amy Alsfeld Fred Altergott Jaime Alverez Dhara Amin Cynthia Amon Joe Amon Emily Anania Maria Andaya Donald Andersen Diane Andrews Sandy Andrews Susan Andrews Danielle Antony Jason Arminger Melanie Arnold Meaghan Arsola Darryl Asbury Omneya Ayoub Julie Babcock Erica Bader Bill Bailey, Jr. Malcolm Baird Kelsey Baker Madison Balasia Scott Balasia Nita Balderston
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Betty Baldo Terry Banz Lisa Bao John Bare Karen J. Barker Robert Barrett, Jr. Sarah Bartel Lois Barth Peg Baseden Fran Bayard Jason A. Beale Magritte S. Beale Corey Beattie Cristy Beckman Christy Belardo Pre Belardo Sean Belardo Kyle Bell Rose Bender Chris Bennett Laureen Eick Benson Ron Benson Brendan Berl Stephanie Bernasconi Dolly Berndt Janet L. Berry Jackie Beverin Erica Bickhart Sarah Biddle Chris Bird Lisa Bisbe Ray Bivens William Bizjak Lee Anne Black Sara Blackwell Yvonne Blades Lauren Bleakney Russell Bomberger
Barbara Boorman Marilyn Booth Barbara Borleske Mark Bosick John Bourne Clem Bowen Jean Boyer Seema Brahmbhatt Jeff Brake Caitlin D. Brigham David Brinley Terri Brixen Howard Brokaw Heather Brooks Katherine A. Brooks Annie Brown David Brown Emma Brown Sharon Brown Theresa V. BrownEdwards Mairead Browne Lori Brozek Judith Bruns Lawrence F. Bryce Valann Budischak Connie Bukowick Peter Bukowick Maureen Jane Bulong Gary Burcham April Burg Kelly Burns Dennis Burton Jessica Burton Eileen Butler Kitty Byk Lindsay Cain Adriana Cairns Cammie Cairns Liz Caladonato Joann Callaghan
Kelly Caloway Rachel Cameron Christopher Canning Jessica Cantler Matthew Capaldi Tony Capaldi Mary Ann Capria Michelle Caracci Amy Caricchio Adam Carl Annie Carter Betsy Carter Leah Casapulla Sarah Case Maria Cattell Jeff Chalfant Margot Chalfant Peggy Chandler Paulina Charlebois Jessica Chason Johanna Chehi Amy Chen Phillip Chen Stephanie Chen Nora Childers Steve Childers Debra Chisenhall Ray Chorba Chaokang Chu Pei-Li Chu Melissa Chudnofsky Ashley Ciamillo Saundra Clark Ellen Clarke Mary Clarke Juli Clayton Don Coats Virginia Cobley Andrew Cocuzza Rick Colbert Natalie Cole
Alice Collins Caitlin Cook Buzzy Cooke Gloria Cooke Jaclyn Cooper Bonnie Copeland Bettina Cordes Conrad Cordes Rachel Cordova Giselle Cosentino Roberta Cosentino Carolyn Cotter Erin Couch Megan Couch Melissa Coulter Shelly Covert Taiilore Cradle Liz Crain Josh Crampsey Michael Craskey Valerie Craskey Willard G. Crichton Taylor Crist Sumner Crosby, III Courtney Cullen Shawn Cullin Jimmy Curran Martin Currie Brendan Czupryna Patrick Czupryna Lisa Dalton Lauren Danneman Ann Darling Alec Davis Dorothy Davis Glenn Davis Keaton Davis Daniel delBusto Jacqueline DelCampo Julianne DelCampo Bethanie Delfunt
Sofia DelPorte Thomas DelPorte Nancy DeMoss Bernard Dempsey Paul Dennison Sandy Dennison-James Denise M. Denny Sean DeRoos Grace Dewson Katie Diehl Barbara Diekmann Marty Diffley Kelley Dinsmore Nicholas DiPasquale Valerie DiSabatino Tekoa Dixon Anna Dmytrenko Audrey Doberstein Ronnie Dodd Justine Dombroski Meredith Domzalski Jim Donahue Sally Donatello Richard Donham Deloris Donnelly Francis L. Donnelly Jennifer Donovan Ramona Dowling Sean Dowling Frank Doyle Douglas Dozier Brittany Drazich Jocelyn Dressel Christy Duncan Heidi Duncan Jerry Duncan Angie Dunson Sandy Durgin Wendy Eastburn-Teal Eric Easterby Irvin Eberhart
Janet Ebert Valerie K. Eckert Jeffrey Edwards Bob Ehemann Bob Ehlman Jesse Ehlman Kristen Ehlman Robin Erdmann Tyler Estock Ann Evans Jim Eversmann Jamila L. Fagan Korisha Fagan Marios Falaris Anna Farmer Bill Farrell, II Mary Fay Linda Feeley Sue Fellows Lori Fenimore Captain Brad Ferguson Claudia Ferguson David Ferguson Roxanne Ferguson Chelsea Finch Maureen Finney Brian Fischel Jason Fischel Matthew Fischel Patricia Fish George Fisher, IV Gordon Fisher Sarah Fisher Darryl Flaherty Nancy Flanagan Dick Fleming Lorraine Fleming Karen Flint Peter Flint Taylor Folt Todd Forrest
Johanna Fors Amy Forster Carol Fox George C. Fox Stephanie Fox Robert Frazer Brian Frederick Dick Frederick Nancy Frederick Rebecca Frederick Mara Freilich Katrina Frerichs Nicole Frerichs Alicia Fretz Charles Frick Janet Friedberg Barry Fry Kevin Fryberger John M. Gaadt Will Gaines Rodney Galentine Janna Gallagher Vishnu Ganesan Charles H. Gant Kyle Garbacz Diego Garcia Jo Ann Gardner Lexie Gardner Barbara Garland Sarah Garland Patrick Garriz Katrina Gearhart Donna Lee Gerst Bella Gier Dick Gilbert Charlie Glick David Gobris Luis Gonzalez Tom Gorko Ainsley Graham Kathy Graham
www.delawarenaturesociety.org
Platte River Crane Migration, and West Virginia Cross-country Skiing. NatureLink, an outdoor education program for underserved families and youth who could otherwise not afford the experience, increased from 1,000 in 2006 to 1,500 in 2007. Overall, the Delaware Nature Society is proud of the efforts, growth, and accomplishments achieved in, and through, their education department during the past year.
Abbott’s Mill Contacts Increase In 2007, school field studies at Abbott’s Mill Nature Center saw the participation of 9,100 students, and an additional 2,300 community members were reached through the Autumn at Abbott’s Festival, members’ programs, and public outreaches. Of the 1.3 million total contacts reached by the Delaware Nature Society, 250,000 of those have been involved at the Abbott’s Mill Nature Center. Adult Trips & NatureLink Other highlights of the year included adult trips to Fallingwater and the Laurel Highlands, Great Smoky Mountains, Nebraska’s
Phyllis Grandine Jacquelyn Grant Lauren Greco Charlotte S. Greenewalt Henry C. Greenewalt Christine Gregg Libby Gregg Jane Griffin Matthew Griffin Melissa Griffin Lindsay Griffith Margaret Griffith Judy Groves Gary Grulich Billy Grybowski Matt Gueke Diane H. Gulyas Darlene Guyer Debbie Guyer John Guyer Pat Haac Patricia Hackett Bill Haldeman Geoffrey Halfpenny Emily Hall Tom Hamer Jen Handlin Molly Harper Rick Harper River Harper David Harrison Jillian Harwood Jill Haslam Drew Hastings Kate Hastings Sherry Hastings Regina Haug Mark Hause Laura Hayes Leah Hazuda Sean Healey
Kim Henry Sharon Hepford Walt Hepford Caitlin Hepps Keeney Barry A. Herbst Richard P. Hermann Matthew Hermenau Terry Higgins Mark Highland Roger Hilaman Zachary Hill Amy Hoffman Anne Hollingsworth Irv Hollingsworth, Jr. Bridgette Hood Stephanie Hoopes Mary Hopkins Catherine Horn Catherine Horstmann Kyle I. Howard Alex Hruska Jane Hruska Kelly Huang Harry Hughes Jeanne Hughes Cliff Hunter Kim Hunter Alison Huyett Jason Huynh Adam Ignatz Eric Ignatz Hans Ignatz Charles L. Ingersoll Gregory A. Inskip Kelsey Irelan Carol Ireland James Ireland John Iwasyk Alan Jackoway Ingrid Jackoway Barbara Jaffey
2007 Annual Report
Stephanie Janiec Bill Johansen Will Johansen Andrew Johnson Greg Johnson Karen Johnson Peter Johnson Nicholas Jones Rebecca Jones Haley Jordan Jim Jordan Kristin Jordan Lindsey Jordan William D. Jordan, Jr. William D. Jordan, Sr. Chris Jording Eugene M. Julian Madeline Kaeding Cathe Kalisz Gabriel Kaplan Don Keane Mollie Keane Raven Keane Diane Kedash William Keddie David Kee Dylan Kee Jordan Kee Adam Keir Doug Keir Kevin Keir Shaneka Kelley Tim Kelley Cassidy Kemp Rachel Kennel Jim Kerr Yasmin Kidwell Elizabeth King Tom King Barbara R. Kinkle Kate Kirlin
Robert G. Kissell Matthew Klein Robert Kleszics John Klosiewicz Shawnee Knoll Mary K. Koeppe Elizabeth Kopatsis Gary Koretzky Maya Koretzky George Koukedis, Jr. Vince Kranz George Krupanski David Kubacki Christine Kurz Gordon Kurz Seth Kurz Tanner Kurz Gwendolyn Lacy Katie Lala Dixon Lamborn Frank LaMorte James Lan Matthew Lan Andrew Lasota Kai Lassen Marion Lassen Sarah Laurel Paul Layton Carmen Lee Pow Conrad Lee Dana Lee Jasper Lee Johanna Lee Justin Lee Lily Lee Michelle Lee Mike Lee Paige Lenhoff Rick Lewandowski Tita Lewis Annie Li
Richard Lighty Ian Littlejohn Connie Logothetis Dede Long Lee Long Paul Long Eric Longoria John Longoria Arianna Lopatin Kim Lopez Anna Lounsbury Mary Lowe Dr. Lillian Lowery Jing Lu Lynda Lueck-Stoner Faith Lyons Garrett Lyons, Jr. Patricia Lyons Patrick Lyons June MacArtor Luciana Machada Anna Marie MacKeand Crawford MacKeand Kate Mahoney Carol Majors AnnaLouise Malgiero Arielle Mandelberg Rep. Nick Manolakos Paula Manolakos Andrew Marchetta Leah Marino Jacob Markiewitz Michelle Markiewitz Rachel Markiewitz Walt Matesa Shana Mattes Gale Matthews Joe Mauk Tommy Mauk Claire Mauvais Joe Mazich
Ken Mazich Claude McAllister Cyndy McAllister Michael McCabe Morgan McCabe Coleen McCarren Kate McConachie Kelsey McCormick Lisa McCraw Cameron McDougall Monte McGinnis Kevin McGrellis Meg McHugh Vivien McIndoe Lee McKelvey Andrew McKnight Karen McLachlan Wesley L. McNealy Becky Meister Donna Melton Jackie Mento Lilly Mento Robert Mercer Elizabeth Merritt Stephanie Merritt Alexis Meschter Daniel Meschter Tian Mi Brandy Midzinski Nicholas Mielnikiewicz Rick Mihills Dorothy Miketa Mick Mikity Phyllis Mikity Alexa Miller Carlton Miller Mark Miller Ryan Miller Ellie Minasian Jeremy Minnich Elise Minor
Robert Minshall Adam Mitchell Ryan Mitchell Stephen Mockbee Jim Montgomery Joshua Moody Rachel Moore Betsey Moran Richard Morelli Ann Morgan Michelle Morici Kelsey Morrison Jeff Mosko Tammy Motahar Catherine Mulholland Kenneth Mulholland Michael Pat Mullin Donna Murphy Anne Murray Anthony Muscelli Alice Myers Anne Myers Ila Myers Glynne P. Nagle Laura Nagle Tejal Naik Marlys-Jean Natonick Greg Neal Carlyn Nelson Ngoc Nguyen Jason Nichols Jake Norton Elizabeth Nowak Emily Nowak Christina O’Brien Stefanie O’Brien Sally O’Byrne Terry O’Byrne Valeria O’Connor Christine O’Neal Logan O’Neal
Mike O’Neal Jim O’Neill Bobby Olinger Korry Olinger David G. Onn Nicole Osman Kim Overby Darwin Palmer Manny Panar Rita Panar Jaclyn Panebianco Jeff Pantazes Melanie Parisi Jaemoon Park Nancy Parker Chris Patterson Dee Patton Nikki Pauls Chet Peden Gordon Perkins Gina Perregrino Corbin Personti Lisa Pertzoff Caroline Petti John Pettit Juliet Pettit Laura Pettit Mark Pfeifer Blaine Phillips, Jr. Emily Phillips Deb Phipps Parker Phipps Byron Pierce Deanna Pillarelli Al Pinkerton Diana Pinkerton Steve Pisklak Thomas Pisklak Guinevere Pitcher Dr. Tom Pizzolato Nicole Podesta
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NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION
their collective 313 acres in Sussex County into the State’s System of Nature Preserves. The Milford Millponds Nature Preserve achieved permanent preservation of the natural and cultural landscape surrounding Abbott’s Mill and Abbott’s Mill Nature Center.
The Delaware Nature Soci-
Statewide, there are now 22 Nature Preserves totaling more than
ety’s Natural Resources Con-
4,000 acres.
servation (NRC) Department includes three well-developed
Stewardship in the Christina Basin Watershed
program areas:
The Christina Basin watershed has always been an area of great focus for the Delaware Nature Society. Over the last two years,
• Land Preservation Jen Gochenaur, Associate Director
• Advocacy
seven lectures were conducted, reaching 395 individuals, in the various sub-watersheds of the Basin to raise awareness about
• Watershed Stewardship – comprised of Stream Adoption,
water quality impairments and roles for citizens and decision
Technical Stream Monitoring, and Backyard Habitat.
makers. This outreach program served as a complement to the Delaware Nature Society’s Technical Stream Monitoring program
In 2007, there were several distinguished highlights through its work.
established at 38 locations throughout the Basin. State of the Watershed reports were produced in 2007, summarizing data col-
Delaware’s Newest Nature Preserve
lected from 2000-2005 at these monitoring sites. In addition, the
Nature Preserve designation is the highest level of protection the
Delaware Nature Society concluded a three-year project in 2007
State can afford to open land. The Delaware Nature Society
funded through an EPA Watershed Initiative Grant, which pro-
teamed with the Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife to enroll
vided Smartyards landscapes to 150 Christina Basin residents.
VOLUN T E E RS Lisa Poirier Carroll F. Poole Corinne Porter Lauren Powell Page H. Pragoff Tina Pragoff Carolyn Price Teddy Price Meredith Prince Coralie Pryde Katie Pusecker Jillian Pyle Jack Quinn Anna Quisel Michael Rabian Susan Radecki Mr. Bill Rafter Samantha Ranlet Barbara Reader Joshua Readus Su B. Ream Melissa Reamer Barbara Reed Eunice Reed Tom Reed Sandra Reedy Cameron Reighart Polly Reinicker Janice Reissig Michael Remus Thomas Reno Mary Anne Rice Mary Richards Harley D. Richardson Jean Richardson Ryan Richardson
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Sande Richardson Jamie Riggleman Lynn Riley Mairead Ripp Dawn G. Rittenhouse John Ritterson June Robbins Barbara Roberts Chad Roberts Clyde Roberts Pat Robertson David Robinson Eric Robinson Rebecca Roelofs Larry Rohm Joan Rosenthal Seth Ross Roland Roth Ashley Rotholz Eva Rotmann-Oehler Hildegard Rupp Benjamin Russell Paul Russell Sara Russell Erin Ryan Kristin Ryan William Ryan Jennifer Sabatino Charles Salkin Emily Salmons Kyle Sams Burt Samuelson Julie San Miguel Marina San Miguel Zac Santry Jennifer Sauer
Brook Saunders David Saveikis David Sawdey Sophia Sawicki Sue Schaefer Dave Schindler Laura O. Schmidt Lillia Schmidt Phyllis Schmidt Sophia Schmidt Lori Schnick Ryan Paige Scholes Rebecca Scholes Bob Schroeder Rebekka Schultz Lou Schurter Andrew Scott Hannah Seador Joe Senall Ryan Senall Mary Lou Serafin Suzanne Seubert Donna Shand Charles Shattuck Ryland Shattuck Thomas Shea, Jr. Moira Sheridan Brooke Sheriff Tiffany Shi Stephen Shisler Jamee Short Jenny Short Greg Shriver Ashlyn Shupe Audrey Sidell Tracey Simmonds Hope Skibicki Julian Skibinski
Laura Smallwood Amelia Smith Bill Smith Leah Snyder Diane Song Sharon Song Aditya Sood Leonard Sophrin Adam Sorantino Boyd Sorenson Donna Sorenson Sen. Liane Sorenson Lauren Southard Jerry L. Spangler Joan Sparks Joy Sparks Chelsea Spyres Laurel Squadron Shwetha Sridharan Cynthia Stahl Geoffrey Stahl Ralph Stahl Judith Stallkamp Michael Stanislow Linda Stat Sandy Steacy Chelsea Stenner Pam Stephani Jan Stern Jim Stern Lance Stern Bill Stewart Marion Stewart Maren Stinson Sarah Stoltzfus Justin Stone Mark Stone Roger Stoner
Dave Stracke Bob Strahorn Pat Strahorn John Stratman Karen Stratman Megan Stratman Dale Stratton John M. Stringham Jane A. Strobach Glenn Struck Judy Struck Sharon Struthers Jim Subach Wendy Suh Devin Sullivan Alli Sussman Kenisha Sutherland Carl Swanson Helen Swanson Dr. James Swasey Rachel Sweigart Brendan Swift Gregory Swift Jack Swift Mary Swift Stephen Swift Mary Sylvester Scott Sylvester Jamie Tan Alana Taylor Art Taylor Lindsay Taylor Scott Taylor Jennifer Teague Carsten Teixido Nina Teixido Eleonore Thomas Allana Thompson
Beth Thompson Keith Thompson Matt Thompson Shannon Tilmon Steve Tolbert Susan Tolbert Chad Tolman Barbara Toman Heather Townsend Kim Townsend Stephanie Trader Jo Trasatti Diana Trenk David Trimble GSBC Troop 1345 Barbara Tucker Steven Tuhy Kate Tullis John Tulloch Dailey Turner Josh Turner Lowell Underhill Wayne Upshur Olav Urheim Gina Valania Kirsten Valania Kalise Valentine John Van Stan Rozemarijn VanderPost Judi VanderWerff Peggy Vavalla Carly Veale Sara Veale Dell Venarde Mary Vinciguerra Megan Vitale Carly Viup Tatnall School Volunteers
Regina Von Schriltz James ‘Rhett’ Walker Clayton Walls Holly Walsh Tom Walsh Rob Walton Ashley Ward Helena Warrington Robert Warrington Lovat Watts Christina Weaver Mike Weaver Kay Webster Marcie Weigelt Betsy Wenny Doug Wenny Harriet Wentz Louise Werbe Jim Werner Nicolai Werner Sarah West Leanne Wheeler Bair White Tom White BJ Whittaker Cori Whittaker Mrs. Amy Wilburn Bruce Wilburn Laura Wilburn Maria Wilburn Lois Wilkinson Amanda Will Margretta Willemin Audrey Williams Don Williams Emmery Williams Leticia Williams Lynn Williams
Nathan Williams Rich Williams Pat Williford Caroline Wilson Scott Wilson Anthony Winder Henry Witman Nolan Witman Mary Wolfe Elliott Workman Tara Wosiski Andrew Wright Ellen Wright John Wright Dan Wrinn Allison Wu Juliette Wurm Gregory Wuthnow Julie Xue Chris Yencer Sandra Yoo J. Cameron Yorkston Adam Yoskowitz Kathleen Young Louise Young Wes Young Maryann Younger Marlee Zabriskie Susan Zabriskie Timothy Zador David Zecher Pamela Zhang Melinda Zoehrer Lauren Zug
q
www.delawarenaturesociety.org
A Strong Voice for the Environment Throughout 2007, the Delaware Nature Society continued to provide a strong and reasoned voice for the environment. The organization prevailed in an appeal in Delaware Superior Court challenging the Coastal Zone Industrial Control Board’s decision to allow Vane Line Bunkering to conduct oil lightering activities in the Delaware Bay at Big Stone Anchorage. The Delaware Nature Society and conservation partners worked collectively to try to halt the placement of National Interest Electrical Transmission Corridors throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region, to advocate Endangered Species Act listing for the red knot shorebird, and to encourage the establishment of the nation’s first offshore wind project along Delaware’s coastline. Conservation and Preservation in the Red Clay Valley Over the last year the Delaware Nature Society, in partnership with the Red Clay Valley Scenic Byway steering committee, completed the Corridor Management Plan for the 28-road network that composes the byway. The Corridor Management Plan describes the goals, strategies, and responsibilities for conserving and enhancing the Valley’s cultural, scenic, historic, and natural resources. Note: DelDOT’s review and final approval of the Plan was received in April 2008.
CO NT R IB U T O R S Life Members Lorraine M. Fleming Nancy G. Frederick June Jenkins Peterson Carroll F. Poole Janet Taylor Betty Thomas Lynn W. Williams Eagles $7,500 & Above Anonymous Bank of America BHA Foundation Fund Chichester DuPont Foundation, Inc. Louise Copeland Duemling Charitable Lead Trust Crystal Trust Decade Charitable Lead Annuity Trust Delmarva Power Henry B. du Pont, IV DuPont Company Ellice & Rosa McDonald Foundation, Inc. Fair Play Foundation Karen & Peter Flint Peter Flint, Jr. & Sarah Gordon Mr. & Mrs. William H. Frederick, Jr. Crawford H. Greenewalt, Jr. Henry C. Greenewalt Harvest Market Inc. The Haverford Trust Company Laffey-McHugh Foundation PSEG Estuary Enhancement Pat & Charles Robertson Starrett Foundation The Struthers Family United Way of Delaware
2007 Annual Report
Great Horned Owls $5,000-$7,499 AstraZeneca Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Howard P. Brokaw Delmarva Ornithological Society Cliff & Kim Hunter Laird Downs Perpetual Trust June & Frank MacArtor Mrs. Stephanie Speakman Valero Peregrine Falcons $2,500-$4,999 Anonymous Jeffrey & Carol Lloyd Bove Mrs. Greta Brown Layton Charles Wentz Carter Memorial Foundation Mr. & Mrs. L. Du Pont Copeland, Jr. George Fisher, IV Lorraine & Richard Fleming Charlotte S. Greenewalt David Harrison Sally Harrison Emil & Phyllis Mikity Michael E. Riska & Angie Dunson Mary & Tom Shea Wilmington Trust Snowy Egrets $1,000-$2,499 Mr. & Mrs. John Billingsley Steve & Barbara Borleske Bouton Foundation Fund Martha Brennesholtz Bonnabel Callens Mr. & Mrs. Edmund N. Carpenter Ciba Specialty Chemicals Corporation Douglas M. & Ellen A. Clarke Commonwealth Trust Company Charles & Bonnie Copeland
Mr. & Mrs. Bernard S. Dempsey The Dresher Foundation Irenee du Pont May William Farrell Dr. & Mrs. D. M. Ferguson Mary Fey Jenkins Formosa Plastics Corporation Delaware Trail Spinners Inc. John Frink & Erica Miller General Motors Corporation Frederick deL. Greenewalt GreenWatch Institute Diane & Ed Gulyas Cheryl Hess & Sean Morrison Jeannette B. Isaacs William & Melissa Lafferty James T. & Rebecca G. Laster Nancy K. & Daniel C. Lickle Richard H. & Jean M. May Sallie McCoy Mid-Del Charitable Foundation, Inc. Betsey & Fred Moran Jay & Martha Newlon Paul Newman Noramco of Delaware Inc. Kim Overby & Gary Koretzky Mr. & Mrs. Christopher S. Patterson Patterson Schwartz Real Estate Lisa Pertzoff & Rob Walton Mr. & Mrs. A. Duer Pierce, Jr. Rencourt-Carpenter Foundation, Inc. Clyde & Barbara Roberts Joan & Joseph Rosenthal Seth Ross Rotary Club Of Wilmington Ethel Sayre Mrs. Gail Sezna Mr. & Mrs. J. Simpson Dean, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth C. Smeltz Karen L. & David T. Sowa, MD
Linda & Richard Stat Jocelyn & Jim Stewart Dale Stratton Sussex County Council Lowell T. & Lois B. Underhill United Way Of Southeastern PA Sharon & Beau Vinton Wilmington Flower Market, Inc. Anthony & Kathleen Yarmolyk Avocets $500-$999 Fred Altergott Anonymous Artesian Water Company Inc. Atlantic Concrete Company Bancroft Construction Company Paul & Edna Bente Joan Bolling Mr. & Mrs. Robert H. Bolling, Jr. Peter & Connie Bukowick David J. & Virginia Lee Butters Steve & Peg Castorani Mr. & Mrs. James T. Chandler, IV Richard Christopher Colonial Rotary Club Of Dover Denis & Susan Curran Harold A. & Mary Davis James E. & Barbara Donahue Frank & Deloris Donnelly Mr. & Mrs. Irenee Du Pont, Jr. Ann & Samuel Dyke Ederic Foundation Paul & Mary Ehrlichman Katherine Esterly Vincent Fedetz Lawrence & Janet Flenner Dr. & Mrs. Thomas A. Ford George & Carol Fox Mr. & Mrs. William G. Gahagan Rodney E. & Shelly Galentine
Andrew & Tatiana Guile HDC Inc. Harvey, Hanna & Associates, Inc. Hospitality Ventures Inc. Charles L. Ingersoll & Richard T. Jolly Johnson & Johnson The J. P. Morgan Chase Foundation Diane & David Kedash Jill & Jeffrey Kennard Renee Lett Alan & Ellen Levin Anestis & Connie Logothetis Dr. Lillian Lowery William E. & Mary Ellen McEnroe Karen L. McLachlan Ray Mortenson & Jean Wardle Anne Murray Scott & Audris Nelson Suzanne & Tim O’Connell Kathleen & James Patton Barbara & John Reader Pamela & Charles Richards Charles L. & Barbara Robertson Bill & Alice Roe SC&A Construction, Inc. Ginny Schiavelli Lloyd Shorter & Jolly Clarkson-Shorter Howard L. & Louise Sipple Mr. & Mrs. David B. Stratton Janice & Richard Taylor Charitable Fund Mr. & Mrs. P. Coleman Townsend, Jr. United Water Delaware Dell Venarde Martha Verge du Pont Erik & Amy Voss Waters Corporation Mr. & Mrs. John M. Watkins Bob & Trudy Wendt D. G. Whitmore Norman G. Wilder
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LAND AND BIODIVERSITY:
•
Sharp-shinned Hawk nested and fledged three young at the Ashland Nature Center – first Delaware nesting record for
Progress and Improvements Realized in 2007
this species. The Delaware Nature So-
•
ciety, which owns or manages
more
American Kestrels nested and fledged three young at Burrows Run – only one of two active nests found in New Castle County.
than
Eastern Chipmunk observed for the first time at Burrows Run
1,100 acres of wildlife
Preserve.
habitat and educational •
preserves, accomplished
ducted at the Ashland Nature Center and the Burrows Run
several productive biodiversity management proj-
Preserve.
Jim White, Associate Director
ects in 2007: •
•
for this species in Delaware.
dergrowth (see photo at far right). •
management of the area for the species by planting Red
A new tractor was purchased to be used at Coverdale Farm and Burrows Run Preserve.
A Saw-whet Owl was found over-wintering at the Burrows Run Preserve, an exciting occurrence since DNS began
An Eagle Scout project installed a Deer exclusion fence at Burrows Run Preserve to prevent damage to trees and un-
Baltimore Checkerspot butterfly winter nests were found at the Burrows Run Preserve - one of only two known locations
•
Extensive invasive alien plant control projects were con-
•
Land management was initiated at Cooch-Dayett Mills – creating trails and teaching areas.
Cedar trees in 1992. Ashland’s Trail Restoration Project •
Native tree buffer was expanded along the Springhouse Rill
All four interpretive trails were overhauled with new markers in-
at Coverdale Farm
stalled and development of new written guides began.
CONT R I B UT O RS Lynn & Richmond D. Williams Diane & Tom Wren Janet Yabroff Wood Ducks $250-$499 AIG Life Companies (U.S.) Mr. & Mrs. Frederick Alexander Thomas & Pamela Allingham The Ames Foundation Donald & Shirlee Andersen Anonymous David J. & Lorene J. Athey John P. Bare & Kim Townsend Mr. & Mrs. C. Minor Barringer Dave & Ann Burton Linda Chambers N. Alexine Cloonan Mr. & Mrs. Howard Cosgrove Mrs. David Craven James & Kathleen Curran, Jr. William & Sarah D’Alonzo John & Diane Danzeisen Deming Family Trust Lois W. Dow & William Rowe Mr. & Mrs. Alfred B. du Pont Mr. & Mrs. Charles E. Durgin Earthwatch Institute Heather Evans Brian, Helen, Jason & Matthew Fischel Mr. & Mrs. Henry A. Flint Mr. & Mrs. Peter Frederick
8
Richard H. Frederick Charles Ganter & Christine Hansen Gateway Garden Center, Inc. Gooding Group Foundation Walter & Karen Graham David L. & Melanie Greenewalt Helen V. Griffith Geoffrey & Patricia Halfpenny Tom & Barbara Hallowell Jennifer & Jason Hann-Deschaine John & Kerry Harper Mary C. & Harry Haskell Nathan & Marilyn Hayward Robert & Patricia Barry Heyssel Rodney & Dorothea Huber William & Barbara Jaffee John E. & Sandra L. Dennison-James Shivaun & Jack Jester Dr. & Mrs. John Jones Chris & Carol Jording Michael & Yvonne Kelley Philip & Betty Klabunde Sharron Laas Marion & Kai Lassen Mr. & Mrs. Richard Lauder Sutton Kristin & Edward Ledden Ann & Ed Loring Crawford & Anna Marie MacKeand The Manley Family Thomas & Ruth Marshall FM & Dave Mooberry Mrs. Christopher L. Moseley
Kenneth & Kathryn Nachbar Henry T. & Debra A. Nazdrowicz Betsey A. Ney Parry & Nancy Norling John D. Pesek, Jr. Gregory & Deirdre Pettinaro W. Eric & Judith E. Roberson James S. & Judith Roberts Jerome & Yvette Rudnitzky Dr. & Mrs. Martin W. Scanlon William M. Shea & Marty Kromer Sue & Glenn Shealy Jeanne O. Shields Paul J. Shippy Marion T. & Henry H. Silliman, Jr. Mrs. W. Laird Stabler Mrs. Martha F. Steel Marion Stewart Holmes & Didi Stockly Angeline & Kenneth Stoltzfus Bob & Pat Strahorn A. Christine Tabaka & Karl F. Blom Frank & Donna Tait Steven & Kathrine Threefoot The Topel Family Olav Urheim Mr. & Mrs. Rodman Ward, Jr. Robert & Helena Warrington Mike & Kathy Weaver Sue & Rod Welles Betsy & Doug Wenny Dr. & Mrs. Frederick H. West Weymouth & Smith Insurance Kathy Wolfenden Holly & Wayne Wright
Mr. & Mrs. Gregory D. Wuthnow, Sr. Kathy & Cam Yorkston Kristofer & Maryann Younger Ziggy’s Wood Floor Mechanics, Inc. Scarlet Tangers $100-$249 Richard L. & Jill Abbott Don Ainsworth Steve & Kim Ainsworth Mr. & Mrs. Paul Akana Dr. & Mrs. Allen Alexander Dr. & Mrs. Michael A. Alexander Charles Allen & Linda SnyderAllen Marvin & Kathy Andersen Mark A. & Sandra E. Andrews Anonymous Marshall & Libby Arnell Scott & Melanie Arnold Richard & Margaret Arvedlund Theodore H. Ashford Elizabeth & John Baldo Harmon & Ann Banning Len & Sue Bardsley Anne & Glenn Barnhill Maurice Barnhill Dominique Baron Jack & Susan Bartley Alan & Rella Bates Doug & Karen Batt Mr. & Mrs. James A. Bayard, Jr. Jason & Magritte Beale David O. Beattie Leonard & Florence Beck Steve Bednarski & Nancy Arnosti Gary & Roberta Bell
Robert & Joan Bennett Paul & Henrietta Bente Mr. & Mrs. Clifford Berg Rob & Dolly Berndt Mr. & Mrs. Edward K. Bispham, III Georgina M. Bissell Herbert & Yvonne Blades Steve & Natalie Bomberger Charlotte Bonmartini Marie & Carlo Botta Nancy T. Bove Clem Bowen Carter & Jeffrey Bowersox Anna Brenneman Nancy & Mark Brickhouse William F. & Linda O. Brizendine Bill & Kim Brockenbrough David & Carol Brown David & Gwen Brown Matt & Beth Brown Mr. & Mrs. Robert Buckley Ashley & Norman Buczik John & Susan Burchenal Allan Cairncross & Pat Murdock Jack C. Cairns Mark & Nancy Cameron Kathy & Jeffrey Campbell Lynn & Joseph Carbonell Carl Enterprises Inc. Carolina Tailwinds Susan G. Carter Charmayne & Jay Chandler Mr. & Mrs. Gary Charles Mark & Johanna Chehi Ray & Ann Chorba
Pei-Li & Chaokang Chu Don & Martha Coats Reed & Georgia Coats John & Sylvia Collette Susan & Donald Corkran Bill Cotreau & Jessica Sinnott Cover & Rossiter, P.A. Ellen Coyle Willard G. Crichton Robert W. Crowe Hon. Barbara D. Crowell Richard Cruz & Martha C. Frost Anthony & Lucinda Cucuzzella Michael & Michele Czupryna Mr. & Mrs. Alan Dages Karen D’Agusto & Steve Bernasconi Joseph & Lisa Danyo Michael Deane & Elizabeth Westcott Linda & Charles delBusto Peter & Mary DeMeulenaere James & Anita DiAndreth Jurgen & DeAnn Diekmann Francis & Vivian Dill Rob & Debbie Director Stanley & Martha Diver Audrey Donohue Mr. & Mrs. E. Bradford du Pont, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. John E. B. du Pont Duffield Associates, Inc. Mr. & Mrs. Wm. Paul Dunworth Andrew & Maura Edmonds Betsy & Richard Eitel Thomas M. & Jane Eliason, Jr. Michael & Janet Elling Hal & Meg Erskine
www.delawarenaturesociety.org
Middle Run Valley Natural Area
vironmental educational programs and
Staff worked with the state office of His-
Woodland Restoration Project
biodiversity surveys, including a bi-
toric and Cultural affairs to clean up the
weekly bird survey that has observed 129
interior and exterior of Cooch-Dayett
species of birds.
Mills, preparing the site for DNS programming.
Facilities Management at Ashland and Abbott’s Mill An emergency back-up power generator was installed at the Ashland lodge allowing for continuous electric supply in the
A teaching platform was constructed on the Lee Pond as part of a Girl Scout Silver project. Also, the Isaacs Tract boardwalk was completed.
event of a power outage. This increases The Delaware Nature Society has an over-
the overall comfort and safety for groups
all land and biodiversity management plan
staying overnight in the lodge. Also, the
for the Middle Run Natural Area. In 2007,
lodge kitchen counters, refrigerator and
the five-year project continued to expand
entrance doors were replaced and the
the habitat restoration efforts at this site -
exterior was power washed and treated
two successful woodland restoration
with waterseal.
plantings (1,000 trees planted) were completed in the Natural Area. Each of these
The Dilworth house (at left) underwent
plantings utilized 60-120 volunteers.
extensive interior renovation and is now used as staff housing. At the Mortenson
Invasive alien vegetation removal proj-
House, gutters were replaced, and the
ects were undertaken. Other activities
house was treated for termites with re-
conducted at Middle Run included the
pairs made to termite damaged areas.
installation of a deer exclusion fence, en-
Connie & Paul Euston James B. & Pauline Eversmann Duncan & Linda Farquhar John & Cindy Fauerbach Mr. & Mrs. Wendell Fenton Becki Fetters & Mark Parsons Richard & Pat Field Roy & Pamela Finkelman Bill & Sally Fintel Gordon & Frances Fisher Tom & Joan Fiss John & Ruth Ann Fitzpatrick Barr & Grier Flinn Malcolm & Surrey Flint John & Susan Forman Vickie Anne Forster Margaretta S. Frederick & Michael Martin Steve & Diane Freebery Edward J. Freel Sue Fuhrmann & Ron Hamlen Gaadt Perspectives, LLC Garden Club of Wilmington Whit & Cynthia Gardner Jo Ann & Alan Gardner Jeffrey W. & Barbara Garland Eric & Mary Catherine Gaver Jim & Deri Gawthrop GE Foundation Tom & Vicki Gehrt Robert & Diana Gelman Joseph & Imogene Geoghegan Diana G. George Donna Lee Gerst & Glenn Hardcastle Katharine J. Gibson Dr. & Mrs. Michael Ginzberg
2007 Annual Report
Gary & Doreen Gittings GlaxoSmithKline Foundation Barbara & Dennis Glazar Andrew & Helodia Glick Jennifer Gochenaur & Rick Mihills Goorland & Mann Inc. Gordon Heights Garden Club Mary Ann & Ed Gorko Kathy Graham Lester & Phyllis Grandine Dan Greenberg Mr. & Mrs. Donald L. Greene Jim & Kay Greene Arthur & Mary Jane Gregory Daniel R. Griffith Larry & Marion Hamermesh Betsy & Marshall Hamilton H. T. Harcke, Jr. Patrick Hardesty & Linda G. Carter Bill & Melinda Hardie Chuck & Sue Harris David W. Hartley & Laura K. Reilly Denise & Peter Hartranft Robert & Lesley Haushalter Dr. & Mrs. Michael Hazuda Susan & Steve Herrmann Peter & Jean Heytler Terrance L. & Martha S. Higgins Frank Hobbs Eric & Monique Lui Holloway Howard E. Holmquist Daniel & Mary Ann Horning HSBC Philanthropic Programs Margaret & Samuel Hudson Mr. & Mrs. Harry S. Hughes
Al & Mary Iacocca Patrick & Carol Ireland Susan Clare Isaacs & Nina Ashton The Jackoway Family David & Ethel Jackson Dan & Kathy Johnson Eric & Amy Johnson Scott & Susan Johnson Roger & Nancy Jones Jim & Kristin Jordan Richard J. & Catherine S. Julian John P. Justis Gordon & Cindy Kaiser Richard A. Kaiser, Jr. Dan & Melody Kasprzak Elsie & Richard Kellerman Patricia & Michael Kelly Fred & Lynne Kielhorn Karen & H. Richard King Dr. & Mrs. George V. Kirk Barbara & William Kirkland Hans & Catherine Klenk Robert Kleszics Amber Knauss Carole & Graham Knight Robert and Jean Krapf Katherine Kristol Adam Landis & Deborah Miller Susan B. Larsen Rep. Gregory Lavelle Mr. & Mrs. William T. Lawrence Mr. & Mrs. Ching-Cherng Lee Robert & Diana Leitch Ernest D. & Anne Fisher Levering Joy Anne Lindsey
Richard V. Lindsey, Jr. Bea Linton Jeffrey B. & Wendy Lott Colin & Tricia Lowery Alexander & Barbara Luft Mr. & Mrs. David Lunger Sue Lunger Joseph & Nicholas Luongo Tim Lutz & LeeAnn Srogi Gwynn & Carol Lyell Roberto & Priscila Machado Jennifer & Tom Madden Lloyd & Hank Maier Edward & Connie Malin Gordon C. Manin & Margot L. Waitz Marathoner Con Moto Gregory & Anna Marcotte Christy & Scott Margolin Jack & Carla Markell Whit & Katharine Maroney Arthur & Esther Martin The Marvel Agency Roger & Mary Clare Matsumoto John & Cecilia McCormick Mr. & Mrs. Robert C. McCoy Jeff & Claire McElwee Christy & Walter McEvilly Brian McGonigle & Amy Rice Robert & Diane McGovern J. Michael McKenna Cathleen McVeigh & Jeffrey Edwards Rita L. McWhorter & D. L. Smathers Mark & Rebecca Meister Mark Mendell & Robin Horn Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Mendolia
Abraham & Sheila Mensch Ziggy Mielnikiewicz & Barbara Hearne Timothy I. & Nanci M. Mihalski Dr. & Mrs. Ralph Milner Robert & Harrie Ellen Minnehan Lisabeth Moore Richard Morelli & Pamela Stephani Harry Moroz Dennis & Barbara Morrell Carl H. & Renate Muendel Marguerite & Edward Murphy Charles & Glynne Nagle Pamela Nelson Douglas & Susan Nickel Olga & Paul Nielsen Terry & Sally O’Byrne Octoraro Native Plant Nursery, Inc. Ed & Bunny O’Donnell David & Dorothy Onn Mrs. Ben Osbun Stephen V. Packard Alan & Yvonne Palmer Jeff & Lynn Pantazes Elizabeth Papastavros Nancy W. Parker Mark & Carol Parrish Carla Pastore Nancy Peffer & Jeffrey Arriza Chris & Fran Peterson Richard & Laura Phillips Susan S. Phillips John & Catherine Pierce Deanna Pillarelli Darla Pomeroy & There du Pont Page H. Pragoff
John & Joan Priest Thomas Przybylski Kristine & Spencer Qualls Anna Quisel & Bret Snyder Maynard S. Raasch Lucy & Al Rabe John Reddington Robert & Cindy Rehbach Mr. & Mrs. Richard Remenick Frances D. Remley Mary P. Richards Mr. & Mrs. John E. Riegel Dawn W. Rittenhouse Erica & Allison Rodi Mr. & Mrs. Alexander M. Roe Frank & Susan Rohrbacher Doris Ross Roland & Regina Roth Harold Rowland Mr. & Mrs. Ernest F. Ruppe Bob & Gail Russell Rob & Tina Rydgren Susan & Charles Salkin Harold I. & Emily M. Salmons Charles E. Sample Christopher & Penny Saridakis Linda Sauerbrunn Debra & Don Scalessa Sue Schaefer & Paul Dennison Schlusser & Reiver Mr. & Mrs. Charles P. Schutt, Jr. Porter & Laurisa Schutt Mr. & Mrs. Edgar Scott, III Mrs. Robert F. Scott Greg & Louise Sebastiani
9
DEVELOPMENT: Exciting Changes and Expanding Reach The Development Department underwent a restructuring in mid-2007 to provide a greater concentration in Marketing and Public Affairs/Publicity. With new staff in place, publications were re-designed, providing a cleaner look and increased visual interest. Another important improvement Linda Chambers, Associate Director was the increase in printing in an environmentally-friendly process. 2007 also saw an increase in promotional and outreach efforts. Staff shared information about the Delaware Nature Society at a number of public events including the Winterthur GardenFair and a Counting Crows concert, at which the band’s lead singer spoke to the audience about supporting DNS. New contacts were also made through corporate volunteer relationships. Groups from corporations such as HSBC Bank and Bank of America participated in environmental projects like tree plantings and habitat restoration. These increased efforts will continue into the future, bringing the programs and activities of the Delaware Nature Society to more people, and creating more opportunities to educate about natural history and the importance of protecting the environment.
CONT R I B UT O RS Joe & Ellen Sebastiani Arthur Seibel Louisa Wright Sellers Robert & Nancy Sepelyak Earl & Sylvia Seppala Suzanne Seubert Peter & Carroll Shannon Charles & Kathy Shattuck Robert & Betty Shellenbarger Mr. & Mrs. William E. Shone, Jr. Bernie & Sara Simasek Janet F. Smith Julie & Christopher Smith Betty Snyder Harold & Kirsten Snyder Mary & Leonard Sophrin Lee & Joan Sparks Esther Speck Hillary & Jake Spruance Chet & Mary Stachecki James & Judith Stallkamp Howard Starkweather Douglas & Sandra Steacy Paul & Janet Stead Mr. & Mrs. Edward Steiner Scott Stevens Bill Stewart Jane & Warren Stone Elisabeth Stoner John Strange & Caroline Hughes John & Karen Stratman Leo E. Strine, Jr. Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Struck
10
Terry & Kelly Stuchlik Kevin & Danielle Sullivan Janet & Alex Sydnor William & Ann Tansey Tatnall School Leslie & Jonathan Taylor Eric & Donna Teder Xavier & Nina Teixido John & Margaret Thomas Lydia & Eleonore Thomas D. Jon & Gabrielle Thompson Randy Tiffany & Marjorie Yudkin Mr. & Mrs. Roy C. Timmer Barbara Toman Rhoda & William Trexler Kate Tullis & Phillip Liu Mrs. Norman S. Tyler Ellis & Bonnie Underkoffler Claudia Van Lenten & Erik Underhill The Vanguard Group Bettie Von Frankenberg Regina & Don Von Schriltz Jenny & Bruce Vrana Jean & Patrick Wahl Grier & Andrea Wakefield Linda & Andrew Walck Emalea Warner Trentman Tim & Kathy Watson Katharine Way Guy & Cynthia Webster Jim & Lori Weddell Joseph & Sara Weed Willis & Martha Weldin
Contributions Note Thank you to the more than 8,000 members and donors upon whose generous contributions are relied by the Delaware Nature Society to continue the work we do. Through our programs and activities, contributions are used in many areas, but we always strive to spend these gifts wisely. In fact, we hold a 4-star rating by Charity Navigator (an independent charity evaluating organization) for sound fiscal management and we are very proud of this accomplishment. There are many ways to give – membership, annual giving, memorial gifts, and contributions to special funds. Every gift is needed and important, regardless of size. We have combined all 2007 giving for a cumulative per donor total and list contributor names in the appropriate levels to more clearly depict the generosity of our supporters. If there is any error or omission, please contact Linda Chambers, Associate Director, Development & Marketing at 302239-2334, ext. 103 and please accept our apologies.
FINANCIAL REPORT Delaware Nature Society moved forward with many positive fiscal results in 2007. A large contribution was received and then distributed for the purchase of the Morton property adjacent to Abbott’s Mill increasing the acreage of the Milford Millponds Nature Preserve. New programs were offered at Cooch-Dayett Mills near Newark funded by a state grant. Construction of the operations center at
Margaret Werth & Michael Leja Harold White Christopher & Theresa Whitmore Ann & Cal Wick Meredith Wilder Debbie Wilson & Tom Lovatt Dr. & Mrs. Gary Witkin Dennis R. Witmer, MD Diana Dickson-Witmer, MD Jim Wittine & Betty Mincer James & Linda Wolfer Rodney & Susan Wood Mrs. Aleph A. Woolfolk Mr. & Mrs. Richard K. Woolley Robert B. Wortz Frances Young Wesley & Louise Young Tom & Priscilla Zawislak Larry & Joyce Zutz Lorraine Zwycewicz Capital Development Donors Chichester DuPont Foundation, Inc. Crystal Trust Dr. & Mrs. D. M. Ferguson George Fisher, IV Mr. & Mrs. William H. Frederick, Jr. Henry C. Greenewalt Diane & Ed Gulyas David Harrison Ellice & Rosa McDonald Foundation, Inc. The McLean Contributionship Emil & Phyllis Mikity Betsey & Fred Moran NRG Energy, Inc
David Toman, Associate Director
Michael E. Riska & Angie Dunson Seth Ross Mary & Tom Shea Shrieking Meadow Foundation Lowell T. & Lois B. Underhill Lynn & Richmond D. Williams In-Kind Donors Don Brittingham Back Burner to Go Virginia Boyce Roland Comegys Conard-Pyle Company Gloria Cooke Mrs. David Craven Lynn Daudon Jenness William & Linda Evans The Fischel Family Mr. & Mrs. William H. Frederick, Jr. Gateway Garden Center Goorland and Mann Lilian Grosz Gunnip and Co. LLP Carl Hauser Hypoint Dairy Dixon Lamborn Mrs. Looby Mount Cuba Observatory Amy O’Neil Robert Paulas Peg Plank Carroll & Lynn Poole Maynard Raasch Clyde Roberts Keir Sawdey
Taproot Native Design Delaware Trail Spinners, Inc. Mike Weaver Amy White Hal White John Whithead Lynn & Richmond D. Williams Jim & Linda Wolfer Young Lumber Scholarship Fund Donors Mr. & Mrs. John Billingsley Canterbury Garden Club Carolina Tailwinds David Collins Colonial Rotary Club of Dover Country Hills Garden Club John & Sandra Dull Garden Club Of Wilmington Abbie & Ely Gonick Gordon Heights Garden Club Hospitality Ventures Inc. Mid-Del Charitable Foundation, Inc. Milford Elks Lodge 2401, B.P.O.E. Of USA Milford Garden Club Potpourri Garden Club PSEG EEP/PTS Sage Financial Group Silver Pine Garden Club Susan & Rod Welles Wilmington Flower Market, Inc. Wilmington Trust
q
www.delawarenaturesociety.org
Financial Report, cont’d. Coverdale farm began through generous contributions to the Capital Development Program. Annual Giving, raised to fund 2008 operations, reached a new high. And, total assets approached $41 million.
Statement of Financial Position As of December 31, 2007 and December 31, 2006 2007
2006 (restated)
$904,484
$1,369,887
310,442
$305,753
Assets:
The fiscal results mentioned above along with general operating contributions and education program fee growth helped the Society achieve its goals and better serve its mission. Designated funds were also able to be earmarked for the start-up of the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program that will begin at Coverdale Farm in the near future.
Cash and cash equivalents Contributions and grants receivable Prepaid expenses Investments - endowment Investments - other
The growth and diversity of revenue received in 2007 supported the strong reaches of our mission serving programs as well as invested in the long term capital assets that provide for those programs.
$25,995
15,310,219
14,092,746
1,216,047
1,977,421
Property and equipment net of accumulated depreciation Total assets
The 2007 Statement of Financial Position illustrates positive asset growth. Endowment values grew more than $300,000 despite the market position at the end of the year. More than $700,000 was also invested into Coverdale Farm construction by the end of the year. The expanded capital infrastructure will help facilitate the planned program growth at the farm.
18,359
22,930,897
22,366,314
$40,690,448
$40,138,116
$203,076
$63,436
Liabilities and net assets: Accounts payable Payroll withholdings Deferred revenue Total liabilities Unrestricted net assets
3,785
2,160
50,599
10,325
$257,460
75,921
11,300,147
10,508,402
Temporarily restricted net assets
2,023,688
2,494,640
Permanently restricted net assets
27,109,153
27,059,153
Total net assets Total liabilities and net assets
40,432,988
40,062,195
$40,690,448
$40,138,116
Statement of Activities and Changes in Net Assets Year Ended December 31, 2007 with Comparative Totals for 2006 Unrestricted Support and revenue: Memberships Contributions Grants Fees, admissions, tuition Sales and special events Other income Investment income, net of fees Net realized / unrealized gain on investments Total support and revenue
$171,196 438,338 107,590 522,223 93,076 29,915 109,984 91,788
Temporarily Restricted
Permanently Restricted
$
$
697,004 361,684 315,457 301,771
2007 Total
2006 Total
50,000 -
$171,196 1,185,342 469,274 522,223 93,076 29,915 425,441 393,559
$167,320 2,736,217 301,516 530,833 99,230 33,897 370,394 884,469
1,564,110
1,675,916
50,000
3,290,026
5,123,876
457,151 1,689,717
(457,151) (1,689,717)
-
-
-
Total releases
2,146,868
(2,146,868)
-
-
-
Program services: Education Preservation and conservation Land and biodiversity management
1,196,469 388,156 322,934
-
-
1,196,469 388,156 322,934
1,194,122 371,541 311,425
1,907,559
-
-
1,907,559
1,877,088
372,292 239,382
-
-
372,292 239,382
325,443 230,225
611,674
-
-
611,674
555,668
Total expenses
2,519,233
-
-
2,519,233
2,432,756
Change in net assets before other items Land purchase grant paid
1,191,745 (400,000)
(470,952) -
50,000 -
770,793 (400,000)
2,691,120 -
791,745 10,508,402
(470,952) 2,494,640
50,000 27,059,153
370,793 40,062,195
2,691,120 37,371,075
$11,300,147
$2,023,688
$27,109,153
$40,432,988
$40,062,195
Release of restrictions: Restricted endowment draw Other donor restrictions
Expenses:
Support services: Administration and facilities Fundraising and development
Change in net assets Net assets at beginning of year (restated) Net assets at end of year
2007 Annual Report
11