By: Ashley Rogers, Former NJSOC Education Intern
Our next conservationist is Richard M. Leonard, who was born on October 22nd, 1908. While Leonard’s professional life revolved around law, he also made great contributions to the environmental field. Specifically, Leonard served as a Board Director and President of the Sierra Club, a leader in the grassroots environmental movement, from the late 1930s through the early 1970s. He was also the Board Director and Vice President of the Wilderness Society, a land preservation initiative, for a time. Furthermore, Leonard acted as a Vice Chairman for the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and the President of the Save the Redwoods League, which helps to safeguard redwood forests for the future. Finally, Leonard helped to promote the sport of rock climbing, even writing a book about the pastime.
Through the various activities that the NJSOC offers students, ranging from Canoeing and Climbing Wall to Herpetology and Conservation Photography, we hope to provide our children with opportunities that will instill a passion for wildlife and help to promote the next Richard M. Leonard. To learn more about this inspirational person, read posts from The American Alpine Club and Prabook.
Photo Courtesy of BigWallGear.com