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February 1998

Vol. 2, Issue 2



Pa. Wildlife Federation names Conservationist of Year

Major General James MacVay of the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs has been selected as the Pennsylvania Wildlife Federation's Conservationist of the Year for his efforts to preserve the habitat for the regal fritillary butterfly. The Pennsylvania Wildlife Federation annually recognizes outstanding Pennsylvanians for their contributions to natural resource conservation and education. Gen. MacVay, along with nine other award winners in various categories, will be honored at an evening dinner and banquet, March 31 at the Harrisburg Holiday Inn East.

ButterflyGen. MacVay has implemented a unique conservation project at Fort Indiantown Gap, Lebanon County. The project is designed to protect and enhance the habitat of the regal fritillary butterfly. The Gap is an excellent habitat for the last known, sizable colony of the rare butterfly east of the Mississippi. Under the general's leadership, the Pennsylvania National Guard is striving to protect the butterfly habitat by working closely with the Nature Conservancy, reducing the amount of tank maneuvering and encouraging volunteers to venture into formerly restricted military territory to construct food plots vital to the butterflies. The results of Gen. MacVay's efforts are positive and far reaching.

In addition to his direction of the regal fritillary project, Gen. MacVay has helped maintain a hawk watch on the grounds and promote aggressive programs for recycling, stream protection and erosion control.

The Pennsylvania Wildlife Federation, the educational branch of the Federation of Sportsman's Clubs, a National Wildlife Federation affiliate, has recognized outstanding Pennsylvanians who have significantly contributed to the conservation of the commonwealth's environment. Additional awards are given in the areas of Youth, Organization, Communication and Education. Anyone interested in attending the Conservation Achievement Awards Banquet may contact Susan Harral at the Pennsylvania Wildlife Federation at (717) 232-3480.


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