DECEMBER 18, 2009-Stinson Beach, CA-  Audubon Canyon Ranch (ACR), a leader in conservation science, habitat protection and restoration and hands-on environmental education programs, announced today it has chosen J. Scott Feierabend of San Rafael as its new executive director. A biologist serving in the non-profit environmental community for nearly 30 years, Scott will lead ACR with an emphasis on ACR's conservation science, habitat protection and restoration, and environmental education programs.

"Following a comprehensive recruiting process, we are thrilled Scott is joining ACR," said Andy Lafrenz, ACR's Board President. "With a recent major acquisition and a renewed focus on science now complimenting ACR's long-standing community commitment, we have clearly entered a new era in our history. Scott's leadership and strong background in biology will be a key asset for ACR in the years ahead."

Scott most recently served as interim executive director and conservation director for California Trout, the state's leading non-profit advocate for protecting and restoring California's wild trout and steelhead, and their waters. In his role as interim executive director, Scott managed a multi-million dollar budget, and was responsible for budgeting and strategic planning, board governance and executive director recruitment.

As Conservation Director for California Trout, Scott developed, implemented and coordinated California Trout's statewide conservation programs and policies, including protection and restoration of wild trout and steelhead waters, and establishing strong partnerships with academia, government agencies and other conservation groups. Prior to his work at California Trout, Scott served as executive director for the Marin Conservation League.

Scott began his conservation career in 1980 as an intern with the National Wildlife Federation (NWF), where he held positions including staff scientist, lobbyist, director and vice president. Following a 21-year career with the NWF, Scott served as the director of conservation programs for The Nature Conservancy's Alaska Chapter.

"It is an honor and privilege to have been selected for this important leadership position in the Bay Area's environmental community," Feierabend noted. "ACR's donors, volunteers, programs, board and staff, combined with the organization's credibility and 47-year legacy, have set the stage for transformational change as we enter a new decade."

Scott has published numerous scientific papers on a variety of conservation issues including California's native fish, the status of wetlands and lead poisoning in waterfowl and bald eagles. Scott is a native of Louisiana. He received his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Emory University and Masters in Wildlife Biology from West Virginia University.

Skip Schwartz, after serving as ACR's founding executive director for 34 years, will transition into a consultative role. Over the next few months, Scott will work closely with Skip to ensure a smooth transition.

ABOUT AUDUBON CANYON RANCH
The mission of Audubon Canyon Ranch is to protect the natural resources of its sanctuaries while fostering an understanding and appreciation of these environments. Audubon Canyon Ranch educates children and adults, promotes ecological literacy that is grounded in direct experience, and conducts research and restoration that advances conservation science.

Audubon Canyon Ranch properties include the Cypress Grove Research Center on Tomales Bay, the Bouverie Preserve in Glen Ellen, and the 1,000-acre Bolinas Lagoon Preserve in Stinson Beach, which is an important San Francisco Bay Area Great Egret and Great Blue Heron nesting colony. In 2009 ACR announced an agreement with Jim and Shirley Modini to acquire the 1,725-acre Modini Ranch property, located in the Mayacamas Mountains in Sonoma County.

Audubon Canyon Ranch (ACR) is an independent non-profit organization with 501(c)3 status and has received Charity Navigator's highest rating, 4 Star. ACR is not affiliated with the National Audubon Society. Audubon Canyon Ranch programs are made possible thanks to the contribution of thousands of hours of volunteer service, and donations from caring individuals, foundations and businesses. For more information, call (415) 868-9244, email acr@egret.org or visit www.egret.org.