The Friends of the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge (FORINWR) is led by a dedicated Board of Directors and supported by several active committees. Together, we work tirelessly to protect and enhance the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Ohio River Islands.

Board of Directors

Our Board of Directors is composed of passionate individuals who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to our organization. They are responsible for guiding our mission, overseeing our programs, and ensuring the effective use of resources. Meet our board members:

Mark Krivchenia (President)

Mark grew up in Marietta, Ohio. After graduating from Marietta High School, he left the area for 50 years but returned when he and his wife, Hilary, retired. For the past twenty years, Mark has been actively involved with land trusts, watershed groups, and volunteer ecological restoration efforts in Illinois and Indiana. Upon returning, he discovered the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge and decided to get involved. Mark is excited about supporting American Wildlife Refuges, particularly the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge, which he considers a treasure in our backyard.

Emily Grafton (Secretary)

Emily has dedicated years to studying and educating people about the natural world. She worked with the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources, where she published several interpretive field guides. Emily heads the local West Virginia Master Naturalist’s program and has served as the president of the Friends of the Ohio River Island NWR for the past six years. She possesses deep knowledge and love for plants and birds, which she shares through various volunteer activities across the region and state.

Ben Shuman (Treasurer)

Ben is a lifelong resident of Vienna with a background in biology and naturalist experience. For a decade he served as the Executive Director for the Boys & Girls Club of Parkersburg and later authored species descriptions for the National Audubon Society’s publication, ‘Wildflowers of North America.’ Ben is active in the West Virginia Herpetological Society and the West Virginia Master Naturalist program, and he brings valuable tech experience to our Friends group.

Jocelyn Miracle

Jocelyn is an Environmental Specialist for ODOT who spends weekends at The Wilds giving educational tours or participating in Master Naturalist classes. She is passionate about wildlife conservation, learning about native plants and animals, and educating others about the importance and beauty of our ecosystem. Jocelyn has a degree in Organismal Biology from Auburn University and is enthusiastic about connecting with the community and exploring the outdoor opportunities in our area.

Dawn Hewit

Dawn’s life changed when she took a course in ornithology at West Virginia University. She has been an avid birder since 1979 and found her dream job in 2013 as the managing editor of Bird Watcher’s Digest. Following the company’s closure, Dawn became the managing editor for its successor, BWD Magazine. Dawn is committed to helping the Friends of ORINWR protect and restore habitats and promote an appreciation for the natural world in the Mid-Ohio Valley.

Nikki Racer

Nikki lives in Friendly, WV, and studied Environmental Science. She is passionate about biodiversity preservation and ecological restoration. Nikki enjoys hiking, botanizing, backpacking, kayaking, and fly fishing. Her love of nature was nurtured by her grandparents and parents, who introduced her to gardening, bird watching, and camping. Nikki is eager to contribute to the Friends group and promote environmental awareness.

Adam Weaver

Adam is a Mid-Ohio Valley local with a passion for herpetology and a background in graphic design. His artwork often features reptiles and amphibians of Appalachia. Adam also serves on the board of the West Virginia Herpetological Society and is a Master Naturalist in Wood County, WV. Outside of volunteer work, he enjoys hiking, amateur photography, and field herping.

John Dennis

John grew up in Pleasants County, WV, and after many careers, he and his wife returned to the area, residing in Waverly, WV. John is becoming a West Virginia Master Naturalist and is active in many restoration projects. He is an avid photographer and amateur astronomer, hosting astronomy nights at the Ohio River Island Visitor’s Center.

Committees

Our committees are the backbone of our operations, each focusing on specific aspects of our mission. These committees are comprised of board members, volunteers, and community partners who work collaboratively to achieve our goals.

Conservation Committee

  • Mission: To support and promote conservation projects that enhance the refuge’s habitats and protect its wildlife.
  • Activities: Coordinating habitat restoration efforts, managing invasive species, and monitoring wildlife populations.

Education and Outreach Committee

  • Mission: To educate the public about the importance of conservation and foster a connection to the natural world.
  • Activities: Organizing educational programs, workshops, and community events.

Fundraising Committee

  • Mission: To raise funds to support the refuge’s programs and initiatives.
  • Activities: Planning and executing fundraising events, managing donation campaigns, and developing partnerships with local businesses.

Volunteer Coordination Committee

  • Mission: To recruit and coordinate volunteers for refuge activities and projects.
  • Activities: Promoting volunteer opportunities, organizing volunteer events, and providing support and training for volunteers.

Advocacy Committee

  • Mission: To advocate for policies and practices that protect the refuge and promote sustainable use of natural resources.
  • Activities: Engaging with local, state, and national policymakers, and raising awareness about important conservation issues.

Join Us

We invite you to get involved with the Friends of the Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge. Whether you’re interested in joining a committee, volunteering, or supporting our initiatives through donations, your contribution makes a significant impact.

Together, we can continue to protect and celebrate the natural treasures of the Ohio River Islands. Join us today and be a part of our vibrant community dedicated to conservation and education.