New Leadership of Master Naturalists

The Blue Ridge Foothills And Lakes (BRFAL) Chapter of the Virginia Master Naturalist Program (VMNP) recently elected a new Executive Committee.  

The past President, Guy Buford, and Vice-President, Jim Pilversack were replaced by incoming President, Dick LeRoy and Vice-President, Rich Brager.  Continuing in their roles as Secretary and Treasurer are Lee Borgman and Tim Quinn, respectively.

BRFAL Leadership group (L-R, Front Row) - Rich Brager VP Elect, Guy Buford past-Pres, Jim Pilversack past-VP (L-R Back Row) Dick LeRoy President Elect, Lee Borgman Sec, Tim Quinn Treas.

For more than 6 years Buford has provided leadership to establish and then preside as president of BRFAL. From the first organizational meeting at his home in Rocky Mount to handing over the gavel at a recent meeting of the now flourishing group, he has been a persistently steady influence.  In recognition of his pioneering contributions he was awarded a plaque by LeRoy.  Many personal tributes from BRFAL members accompanied the award.

BRFAL President Elect Dick LeRoy presents to Past President Guy Buford a Certificate of Recognition for his dedicated pioneering service over the last 6 (plus) years.

The mission of the VMNP is to train volunteers who are dedicated to the beneficial management of natural resources and natural areas within their communities through projects related to education, citizen science and stewardship service.  Over the years BRFAL has grown to a cadre of 32 active members that contribute to many local projects. Some of those projects are listed on the website BRFAL.org. 

The next Master Naturalist Basic Training class will be held in the Fall from early September until mid-November.  The exact dates and class location have not been set yet, but, as in the past, the class will cover various topics such as local Geology, Stream and Lake Ecology, identification of plants, birds, mammals, insects, amphibians and reptiles, weather and farm/forest management.  Graduates are then expected to complete 40 hrs of service projects and 8 hrs of Advanced Training.  To get additional information about this class please send an email to contact@brfal.org, or call 540-365-4613.  Photos and info by Carl Boast.