Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge with Don Riepe
Join Don Riepe for an illustrated talk exploring the rich history and evolving future of Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge—one of New York City’s most important and dynamic habitats. Learn how this remarkable urban refuge became a premier destination for wildlife, the challenges it faces today, and the conservation efforts helping to protect its diverse ecosystems.
This program offers a fascinating look at Jamaica Bay’s past and present, highlighting why it remains a vital haven for birds, fish, and other wildlife—and a treasured natural space within the city.
About Don Riepe: Retired in 2003 from the National Park Service where he worked as a naturalist ranger and manager of the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge in NYC (1979-2003). Currently, he is employed as Jamaica Bay Guardian for the American Littoral Society. Don has written many articles on natural history subjects and his photographs have been published in many journals including Scientific American, National Wildlife, Audubon, Defenders, Underwater Naturalist, Parade and The New York Times. He has an M.S. in Natural Resources Management from the University of New Hampshire and has taught a course in Wildlife Management at St. John’s University. A long time member of the Port Authority’s Bird Hazard Task Force, he also serves on the advisory board of NYC Audubon and is co-chair of the Jamaica Bay Task Force. In his spare time he leads bird walks and eco-tours to many natural areas both here and abroad.
