Black River Audubon Society

Welcome to the Black River Audubon Society!

Established in 1958, members of Black River Audubon Society (BRAS) are committed to protecting birds and other wildlife while preserving their ecosystems and natural environment in our community. We are a membership organization dedicated to protecting our environment through conservation, education and advocacy. We have monthly speakers from September to May, as well as monthly field trips to birding hotspots across the state. We engage in conservation through our bird programs, such as our bluebirds and kestrels, and through the preservation of local natural habitats. We advocate for laws and policies that are favorable to our mission.

Please consider getting involved and joining our organization!

Education

Educational programs include monthly speakers, field trips, scholarships and programs for children.

Programs

Conservation

Conservation efforts include our bluebird and kestrel programs, creating natural habitats and working in the community.

Conservation

Rachel Shamy
"Introduction to Northern Ohio Butterflies"

Tuesday, September 3, 2024
7:00 PM 9:00 PM
Carlisle Visitor Center- Black River Room
13630 Diagonal Road
LaGrange, OH, 44050

Introduction to the common butterfly species in our area and how to identify them along with how to identify the difference between butterflies and moths. She will also discuss saving our Monarch butterflies. There will be a follow up tagging/release event the next day at the Oberlin Preserve Prairie.

Rachel has been a butterfly monitor for the Toledo Area Metroparks for some time. She also helps spot and identify all of the butterfly species for the yearly NABA (North American Butterfly Association) count in the Oak Openings Region.

Press Release from the Black River Audubon Board of Directors

BLACK RIVER AUDUBON SOCIETY ANNOUNCES
ROB SWINDELL AS FIRST EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

ELYRIA, OH (July 22, 2024) – The Black River Audubon Society (BRAS) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Rob Swindell as its first Executive Director. A recognized conservationist and advocate for animal compassion, Swindell brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to environmental stewardship to this newly established role.

Rob Swindell has been an integral part of the Black River Audubon Society for five years, most recently serving as its President. Under his presidency, the Black River Audubon Society has achieved significant milestones, including completing its 2024-28 Strategic Plan, installing two Motus towers, and advocating to protect local natural habitats.

He has made numerous community presentations to libraries, social clubs, and professional organizations—as well as making multiple appearances on Fox 8’s New Day Cleveland to discuss bird conservation. In 2023, he was nominated for the Great Lakes Audubon Alan Dolan Conservation Advocacy Award.

Swindell's educational background includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science from Baldwin Wallace College, an MBA from Tiffin University, and a Juris Doctor from Concord Law School. He is also a 2005 graduate of Leadership Lorain County and writes a nature column, entitled “Winging It,” for the Chronicle-Telegram. His diverse academic qualifications complement his extensive experience in both environmental and organizational leadership.

The establishment of the Executive Director position marks a new chapter for the Black River Audubon Society, reflecting its growth and the increasing importance of its work in the community. BRAS is dedicated to fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of birds and their habitats. The Society plays a crucial role in promoting conservation efforts through various programs, educational initiatives, and community engagement.

"We are excited to have Rob Swindell take on this pivotal role within our organization," said acting Black River Audubon Board President, Chad Wilson, "His passion for conservation and inspirational leadership will undoubtedly elevate our efforts to protect and celebrate the natural world."

About Black River Audubon Society

The Black River Audubon Society, an independent chapter of the National Audubon Society, is committed to the conservation of birds and their habitats through advocacy, education, and community engagement. Serving the Lorain County area since 1958, BRAS provides a variety of programs and resources to encourage birdwatching, wildlife conservation, and environmental education.

Celebrating 65 Years of Black River Audubon Society (1958-2023)

Black River Audubon Society is celebrating its 65-year anniversary in 2023. Established in 1958, Black River Audubon serves Lorain County and part of Medina County, along the Black River, in its mission to “promote conservation and restoration of ecosystems, focusing on birds and other wildlife, through advocacy, education, field trips and programs for the benefit of all people today and tomorrow.”

With over 500 members, Black River Audubon has been active in the community with a wide variety of activities, concentrating on education, conservation, and advocacy.

Black River Audubon Society 65 Year Anniversary Video