They should name the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge after Don Riepe.
The long-time Broad Channel resident’s resume includes Jamaica Bay Guardian, Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Chief Ranger, co-chair of the Jamaica Bay Task Force, American Littoral Society Northeast Chapter Director, and NYC Audubon advisory board member.
His articles and photographs have been published in such journals as “Scientific American,” “Parade,” and “The New York Times.” He’s also been involved in shore cleanups, marsh restorations, wildlife-promotion, and habitat-preservation efforts for several decades. And last but not least, he’s led countless walks, taken countless photos, and organized various exhibitions related to the greater Jamaica Bay area.
Meet Riepe and check out his photos during the opening reception for his exhibition, Wildlife & Nature in New York City: 40 Years of Photography, at Resorts World New York City in South Jamaica on Friday, Aug. 11, from 2 pm to 4 pm.
The event is scheduled for the Red Wall Art Gallery, where the photos will be on display indefinitely. Riepe, who holds a Master of Science in Natural Resource Management from the University of New Hampshire, will also talk about his journey and insights on New York City’s flora and fauna.
Admission is free.
In addition to being Riepe’s backyard and passion, the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is inarguably the best bird-watching spot in New York City. Spread out over roughly 9,155 acres with estuaries, salt marshes, sand dunes, and woodlands, aficionados have seen at least 330 species – almost half the total species in the Northeast – there over the last 25 years.
Resorts World created the two-floor-high Red Wall in 2012 to showcase work by local artists, photographers, and textile makers in conjunction with community arts organizations.
Resorts World’s entrance is 110-00 Rockaway Blvd. The property has a large, free parking lot. It also has its own subway station, Aqueduct/North Conduit Avenue, on the A line.
Images: Don Riepe