Refuge Night

Andrew Gude, Refuge Manager of The Lower Suwannee and Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuges and five of his staff of twelve, hosted a community discussion at the Cedar Key Public Library to approximately 40 attendees. Larry Woodward, Deputy Refuge Manager; Pam Darty, Visitor Services and Outreach Manager; Vic Doig, Fire Management Officer; Daniel Berrand, Refuge Forester; and Kenny McCain, Law Enforcement Officer took turns explaining their programs, plans and priorities to those in attendance. Andrew Gude summed things up by talking about his desire to build a stronger connection to the community, his hopes to integrate more educational programs and to expand conservation of our precious resources more through deed restriction and conservation easements than through outright purchases of land. Andrew is also interested in getting greater staff presence in Dixie County. Numerous questions were answered by all of staff members present. Refreshments were served by Friends of the Library and Friends of the Refuges.