Legacies of Local Impact

Jim and Patty Goodhart, Workcampers at TNC's Tiger Creek Preserve

To achieve our mission, we need people power. At TNC's Center for Conservation Initiatives (CCI) campus preserves, volunteers help out in ways big and small, expanding our impact locally and globally.  

Jim Goodhart is a mechanic by trade, and at the preserve he is a do-it-all handyman. From fixing vehicles and equipment to learning woodworking skills, he is more than just Mr. Fix It, but a trusted source of knowledge for TNC staff.

“It feels good to be called upon for advice and input," says Jim. "I feel my skillsets are valuable to the team.” 

Patty Goodhart joins Jim, putting in hard work on our restoration and recreation efforts.

“I pull invasives – I love that – and I’m always on the lookout,” says Patty, also known as the Rattlebox Queen. She specializes in treating invasive plant species, like rattlebox and natal grass. She also helps with trail maintenance and educational events, ensuring a welcoming visitor experience.  

Both Jim and Patty know that their legacy is not only in the everyday tasks they do, but also the people they meet along the way. They pass on their knowledge to new preserve staff, sharing their experienced insight on how the preserve works and tasks that need to be done. Jim teaches stewards how to fix their tools, and Patty trains new volunteers as they come on board.  

For Jim and Patty, it’s the people that make Tiger Creek Preserve special. “That’s what keeps us coming back,” says Patty. “I think The Nature Conservancy depends on volunteers. We are a part of this future.”