Volunteer

Growing up among Vermont’s Green Mountains, Erik learned early that nature wasn’t just a place to visit, it was part of who he was. Hiking forest trails, paddling quiet lakes and skiing snowy landscapes fostered a lifelong appreciation for the lands, waters, and wildlife that make our world so special.

That connection to nature never faded. Neither did his belief in the power of people to make a difference.

A Simple Philosophy: Volunteers Get Things Done

“Volunteers get things done!” Erik says with a smile.

To him, volunteering is about more than giving time. It’s about bringing energy, compassion and a willingness to work alongside others who share a common purpose. He values the camaraderie that comes from working with fellow volunteers and believes meaningful change happens when people come together for a cause they care about.

Answering Nature’s Call in Delaware

When Erik moved to Delaware to be closer to his children and grandchildren, one of his first priorities was finding a way to give back. Already familiar with and supportive of TNC, he was excited to discover that the Edward H. McCabe Nature Preserve was practically in his backyard.

After reaching out to learn how he could help, Erik soon found himself back outdoors, protecting the places he loves. Today, he serves as a Trail Monitor at both the Edward H. McCabe Nature Preserve and Ponders Tract Preserve in Milton, helping ensure these special places remain welcoming for future generations.

The Places That Rejuvenate the Soul

Just fifteen minutes from home, McCabe Nature Preserve has become one of Erik’s favorite places.

“A walk in the woods of the McCabe Preserve quickly rejuvenates a tired soul,” he says.

Whether monitoring trails or simply spending time immersed in nature, Erik finds renewed purpose in these landscapes and a reminder of why conservation matters.

Tree Tubes, Teamwork and a Memorable Day at Milford Neck

One of Erik’s favorite volunteer experiences was a workday at Milford Neck Preserve removing old tree tubes. It was challenging work, hauling bulky plastic tubes through dense underbrush, but the reward came from seeing everything the team accomplished together.

Even better was seeing the trees those tubes once protected now standing tall and thriving.

For Erik, the experience reinforced a simple lesson: dedicated volunteers can accomplish a great deal in just a few hours.

Protecting What Matters Most

Erik’s passion for conservation is rooted in the understanding that everything in nature is connected.

He worries about the loss of forests and wildlands, pressure on water resources and the need to maintain healthy wildlife populations. Protecting these resources, he believes, is essential for both people and wildlife.

Natural spaces support our physical health, mental well-being and quality of life. Once lost, many can never truly be replaced.

Inspired by Conservation Near and Far

While Delaware’s preserves hold a special place in his heart, Erik also finds inspiration in conservation success stories around the world.

One example is TNC’s work in Zambia, where communities and partners are helping protect elephant populations while creating benefits for local residents. For Erik, it’s a powerful example of people and nature working together toward a healthier future.

Finding Joy in Every Footprint

What keeps Erik volunteering year after year is seeing the impact.

He enjoys watching restored habitats recover, knowing wildlife has places to thrive, and seeing visitors reconnect with nature. Some of his favorite moments come from reading comments left by hikers, families and nature lovers in trailhead logbooks.

Those simple messages remind him that every trail checked, restoration project completed, and volunteer hour donated helps create meaningful experiences for others.

We are deeply grateful to Erik for the time, energy and heart he brings to TNC’s mission. Whether monitoring trails, attending a volunteer workday or capturing photos while on adventures with his faithful companion, Hershey Pup, that showcase Delaware’s natural treasures, his contributions make a lasting impact.  Their adventures remind us that nature has a unique way of bringing people, pets and communities closer together.

Thank you, Erik!