CCBA Welcomes Our Newest Board Member, Tammie Stark

Coast to Cascades Bird Alliance Welcomes Our Newest Board Member, Tammie Stark, who writes:

I grew up close to nature in the high desert of Nevada in an athletic and outdoorsy family on a ranch homesteaded by my grandparents. I learned practical skills, but my parents did not focus on environmental wellness or education. Many years later, I began a journey of self-education, augmented by a bachelor’s degree in business and master’s degree in environment and community. I used my education to launch a 20-year career as a college instructor in water resources and sustainability and later as an administrator at Lane Community College.

After moving out of the sustainability field, I felt less fulfilled, so I reinvigorated my volunteer efforts, for example, with the watershed council and urban forestry committee. Simultaneously, I picked up birding again and dragged my husband along. Lucky for me, he parlayed his passion for photography into our shared hobby.

I also have a regular gardening habit. When I read in The Quail about the Habitat Haven Program, I was excited to apply. Barb Bryson provided an assessment of my yard and great recommendations. When I asked her about volunteer opportunities with the Coast to Cascades Bird Alliance, she mentioned a need for board members. It seemed to be a good fit and met my need to engage in fulfilling activities. As a board member, I hope to continue to deepen my connection to this bioregion, share my knowledge and enthusiasm with others, and inspire them to engage.