Executive Changes at Swaner Nature Preserve
Commitment to Open Space Remains Strong
Park City, Utah
April 2006
Swaner Nature Preserve announces the appointment of Colleen Rush as Interim Executive Director, and Sumner Swaner as Interim Chairman of the Board, effective April 24, 2006. Ms. Rush has a Master of Environmental Studies, with an emphasis in Conservation Biology, from Yale University. Mr. Swaner is President of the Center for Green Space Design, and is a noted landscape architect, environmental planner, wildlife biologist, and developer.
Swaner Nature Preserve was created fourteen years ago for the key purposes of preserving open space, educating the community about land stewardship and local natural history, and nurturing the land through ongoing restoration. This high-altitude ecosystem, nestled in a rapidly developing area, is a critically important part of Summit County, and a shining example of community-based conservation. Nearly 1200 acres of land provide a unique natural and educational resource that serves students and adults. Ongoing restoration projects reflect the Preserve's mission to reverse damage to the land and to create sustainable habitat for native flora and fauna.
"There are many exciting things on the horizon for Swaner Nature Preserve," said Dr. Paula Swaner, founder and board member of the Swaner Foundation. "Recent management and board leadership changes will ensure that we continue our mission of educating and informing people of all ages about the value of open space."
Future plans at the Preserve include the construction of a new visitors' center featuring a nature education center and interpretive trail system. The center, anticipated to be complete by 2008, will be situated on 1/2 acre of donated land. Additionally, 4,300 feet of raised boardwalk will be installed, as a means for the public to have viewing access to the Preserve, while protecting sensitive areas. Plans are also in place to augment current programs at the Preserve. These include outreach and partnership relationships with higher educational institutions, as well as with community agencies for physically, mentally and emotionally challenged individuals." |
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