Audubon International Names Doug Bechtel as New Leader
Online, March 12, 2014 (Newswire.com) - The appointment of Doug Bechtel as president and chief executive officer of Audubon International (AI), a New York-based organization that works with organizations in 36 countries on environmental sustainability, was announced today by the AI board of directors.
Bechtel has been serving as associate director of environmental programs for AI. Prior to joining the organization, Bechtel was director of conservation science for The Nature Conservancy's New Hampshire Chapter for over 15 years.
AI is a not-for-profit organization that works with nearly 2,500 golf courses, business and other organizations to encourage good management of natural resources. Its mission is to deliver high-quality environmental education and facilitate the sustainable management of land, water, wildlife, and other natural resources in all places people live, work and play. In addition to golf courses, the largest membership base of AI, the organization works with cemeteries, hotels and resorts, residential communities, and industrial facilities.
"I'm proud to serve Audubon International's great mission," said Bechtel. "Our members and partners are enthusiastic about working toward a common goal of environmental stewardship. I am happy to be leading a great team of dedicated environmental professionals providing services, expertise, and environmental education to ensure we live in harmony with the habitats in our communities."
Clarence Bassett, chair of the AI board, said Bechtel "brings a solid background in natural resource management and planning that should prove very valuable in fulfilling the Audubon mission."
Doug holds a bachelor's degree in Biology from Grinnell College and a master's degree in botany from the University of Vermont. An avid outdoorsmen, his favorite pastimes are birding, hiking, and cross-country skiing. He has more than 16 years of experience directing complex land and water conservation projects for the New Hampshire chapter of The Nature Conservancy.
He succeeds Ryan Aylesworth, who is leaving to pursue other interests.
About Audubon International
Audubon International is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) environmental organization that for over 25 years has been using education, recognition, and inspiration to protect and enhance land, water, wildlife, and other natural resources throughout the world. To meet its mission, the organization provides training, services, and a set of award-winning environmental education and certification programs for individuals, organizations, properties, new developments, and entire communities.
For more information, contact Clarence Bassett at 352-255-6199, nybuen@hotmail.com, or Doug Bechtel at (518) 767-9051 ext. 114, doug@auduboninternational.org, or visit the website at www.auduboninternational.org.