Belted Kingfisher Artwork by John James Audubon
who we are
Appalachian Audubon Society (AAS) is a chapter of the National Audubon Society. AAS has more than 1,100 National Audubon members. If you are not already a member of Appalachian Audubon Society, please consider joining. Learn details here.
AAS is over 50 years old, founded in 1971. Find out more about the History of Appalachian Audubon Society by Robert Schell.
What we do
AAS is a registered 501(c)(3) charitable organization that donates over $5,000 in scholarships each year, primarily to youth interested in ornithology or related natural sciences. In addition, AAS supports other like-minded non-profits, such as wildlife rehabilitation centers, through annual giving campaigns. AAS owns and manages Trout Run Nature Preserve in Upper Allen Township, Cumberland County, using resources to restore the property’s ecosystem and create a space that is welcoming to birders and the surrounding community. Our funds to support these causes come primarily from individual donations, partnerships, and events, including through birdseed and native plant sales and a yearly silent auction.
AAS offers educational programs once a month at membership meetings from September through April, with a social gathering held in May. Guided field trips are also frequently led throughout the greater Harrisburg area. Check out the corresponding pages on our website for more information, and please consider donating to our efforts! Thank you for visiting.
Current Goals of AAS
1: Increase membership and volunteer participation in chapter activities.
2: Continue restoration efforts at Trout Run Preserve, and increase knowledge and visitor use of the preserve.
3: Increase youth-oriented activities while reaching out to a more diverse audience.
2023/2024 Officers and Directors
AAS Board includes elected officers, six directors elected by the members for two-year terms, three at each annual election.
Officers - Terms ending May 2024
President - Zach Richard
Vice President - Betsy Riter
Treasurer - Marla Miller
Secretary - Angela Lindgren
Board Directors
Rich Riter, term ending May 2024
Trey Marks, term ending May 2024
Andrew Dapkins, term ending May 2024
Jady Conroy, term ending May 2025
Jeff Predmore, term ending May 2025
Stan LeQuire, term ending May 2025
To contact the board, please visit contact us
Committees
Appalachian Audubon Society has multiple committees that help keep the work of the chapter continuing forward. If you are interested in joining a committee, to find out more about volunteering, please click here.
Those committees are:
Conservation
Education
Events and Fundraisers
Field Trips & Programs
Hospitality
Membership
Newsletter
Publicity
Youth Engagement
Interested in joining a committee? Check out our volunteer page.