Join Us Now in Protecting What Matters Most

A Letter From Bedford Audubon Board President John Hannan

It’s not only the people we serve across this region — you are also helping us develop the next generation of leadership. Your support allowed us to hire Kim Jordan this summer as our Field Biologist.

Working with our Naturalist, Tait Johansson, Kim completed nesting surveys of our Hunt-Parker Sanctuary, Point Counts in Hunt Parker and Franklin Fels Sanctuaries, helped run the banding station, and gave educational workshops. She provided us with data that is being used to manage our lands for priority species of conservation concern while expanding her own skills.

In her note to the Board, Kim wrote “thank you for the incredible mentorship and advice you shared with me this summer – my time at Bedford Audubon has been deeply educational – you have helped me take the next step in my career.”

That spirit is what draws people to Bedford Audubon and makes us such a vibrant, growing chapter. No matter your level of experience, you’ll find an organization that is welcoming, a community where you can belong and learn.

One of our newest Board members, Debbie Burke, summed it up when she stated: “My very first exposure to Bedford Audubon was on a spring walk in Katonah. Everyone was so welcoming and friendly, and I saw my first Indigo Bunting and American Redstart, pointed out to me by the very patient Tait Johansson! I was hooked. I immediately became a member and, from that moment on, what began as an interest developed into a passion.”

And, with your support, we can transform people’s passion into long-term conservation. We are so excited by the conservation opportunities we are ready to take on in 2026. Soon, we’ll be announcing a new Executive Director who will continue to expand our education, science, and conservation programs you and so many others are asking us to offer more of.

In 2026 with your support, we will be able to respond to the conservation needs and we will:

• Expand Habitat Restoration for Species of Concern: implementing a 5-year habitat management plan across our scrubland and wet meadows that prioritizes species like Brown Thrasher (Bylane Farm is one of only three confirmed nesting sites in Westchester County for this species), Prairie Warbler and Rose-breasted Grosbeak while integrating habitat for vanishing pollinator species like Dion Skipper.
• Empower Young Leaders: from high school and college students to Eagle Scouts and young birders — assist them in their conservation research and hands-on field experiences that will nurture the next generation of environmental leaders while providing us with the knowledge to manage our forests for species of concern like Wood Thrush, Scarlet Tanager, and Yellow-billed Cuckoo.
• Increase Inclusive Programming: offering more programs and volunteer opportunities at our newly constructed ¼ acre Accessibility Trail and pollinator garden, extending opportunities to people with limited mobility and ensuring access to nature for all. 
• Strengthen Community Connections: expand our high-quality, free educational gatherings while collaborating with private landowners to ensure their properties are managed for species like Bobolinks, are filled with native plants, and have buildings that are safe for birds – especially reducing window collisions. 

You know our interns, volunteers, and staff work tirelessly to complete these objectives and serve all the communities of northern Westchester and eastern Putnam counties. You also know Bedford Audubon operates with a very small staff, relying on volunteers like you and me — people who are passionate about giving their time and money because they care deeply about their communities and the environment. That is why I am writing to you today.

Right now, your gift will double in value as several Board members and generous donors have come together to establish a $15,000 matching fund. Donate today and your gift will be matched dollar for dollar!

This will ensure our beautiful sanctuaries will be managed for priority species and can be open to all, so we increase the public’s appreciation of nature and their desire to protect it. Your support will help us create new opportunities for people to learn about and explore nature, increasing the educational and scientific programs we offer for young and old alike.

This is why I am asking you to renew your support for the incredible array of local projects we do — projects that exemplify the goals we all believe in. Let’s take this moment to celebrate all that we have achieved, and all we can achieve in the future.  We need you! Please be as generous as you can and renew today.

Yours truly,

John Hannan

Board President, Bedford Audubon