Reese F. Lukei, Jr. Selected as Recipient of the 2022 Mary Reid Barrow Wildlife Advocate Award

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – On Friday, January 29, during the 12^th Annual Winter Wildlife Festival keynote presentation, Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation announced the recipient of this year's Mary Reid Barrow Wildlife Advocate Award as Reese F. Lukei, Jr., who was nominated by six different individuals. The award honors individuals who contribute by celebrating, advocating, and educating people about local wildlife.

In a 2017 Virginian-Pilot article written by David Schleck, he wrote, "Reese Lukei is a bird's best friend in Hampton Roads." This sentiment was echoed over and over again in the award nominations for Reese.

Reese has been active in the wildlife community for over 30 years. He is a dedicated volunteer whose observations on raptor habits and habitats have been shared numerous ways and have benefited both biologists and bird enthusiasts alike. He has been a mentor to many in the wildlife community and is known for his love of engaging in discussions on the topic. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge Society and continues to volunteer time and expertise on refuge projects. An avid photographer, Reese is always willing to share his vast skill and knowledge with others. In 2017, the Reese F. Lukai, Jr. Raptor Trail – a network of trails in southeastern Virginia – was dedicated in appreciation of his decades of volunteer work with raptor conservation, wildlife education and nature trails.

For more about the Winter Wildlife Festival, visit VBgov.com/winterwildlife or join the official festival Facebook group.

About Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation
Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation strives to promote healthy lifestyles and protect the City's coastal environment, as well as to ensure all residents – regardless of their physical, social and economic circumstances – can access Parks & Recreation programs. The department's vision is to be the national leader in providing enriching and memorable lifelong experiences. Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation is accredited by CAPRA, the certifying agency of the National Recreation and Park Association.