The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™

Today, Wayne Klockner, director of The Nature Conservancy in Massachusetts, released the following statement on the announced retirement of Congressman John W. Olver, who represents the 1st District of Massachusetts:

“While we at The Nature Conservancy are saddened to learn of Representative Olver’s retirement, it’s a retirement that has been well-earned. Representative Olver has been a great friend to the environment.

Through his support for the Land and Water Conservation Fund, Representative Olver has played a critical role in acquiring lands in the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge. His backing of Forest Legacy funding for projects in the Berkshires has helped protect more than 1,000 acres there. He led the effort to designate the National New England Scenic Trail and has been tireless in advancing the agenda to combat global climate change.

In 2006, The Nature Conservancy in Massachusetts honored Representative Olver as Conservationist of the Year for good reason. I said then he was a stalwart leader, reliable partner and committed conservationist, and that is at least as true today. We offer great thanks to him for the deeply significant work he’s done, look forward to working with him through the remainder of his term and wish him the best in retirement.”