Living with the Kiawah Conservancy : Our Volunteers
The Kiawah Conservancy has a hard-working professional staff of four individuals , each of whom strives to support the organization ’ s mission . But none of the Conservancy ’ s achievements of the last 20 years would be possible without the army of volunteers who show up every day to make sure the Island will be the unique place it is today into the future . They write for our publications , capture and share beautiful images with their cameras , organize and serve at events , serve on countless committees , and complete the day-to-day tasks that make ours a strong and ever-growing organization . We achieve our mission as a community of people who care . This year three long-standing committee chairmen are retiring from our board . We know they will continue to be a very important part of the Kiawah Conservancy .
Photo by Jane Lurie
A scientist by trade and a teacher by calling , Jack Kotz has dedicated many years and countless hours to the Conservancy . He says his main reason for doing so is that it ’ s FUN ! He truly feels privileged to have served with others who share his passion for research in environmental science .
He served as chair of the Conservancy ’ s Environmental Science Committee . The most challenging project he and his committee faced during his tenure was reviewing and analyzing a massive environmental report that was prepared under the direction of the Kuwaitis when they purchased the Island in 1974 . The committee used the information from the report to ascertain “ what was then ” and “ what is now .” Their important findings led to a Turtle Symposium in 2015 . The committee planned the Alligator Symposium in 2016 and thus established a pattern of yearly programs designed to educate Kiawah residents about nature in their own backyards .
Jack has educated and influenced Conservancy members so that they can continue the work with the same zest and appreciation for research that he has . He also looks forward to enhanced cooperation with the Town of Kiawah Island and the Community Association . Jack Kotz has led by example , and all who know him respect his expertise in and dedication to the natural resources of this Island .
10