By Michelle Morton

Audrey joined the Board in spring of 2023 and served as the Conservation Chair.  She took over the position from former Board member Chandler Bryant, who continued to serve on the board for another year and assist with some of the conservation projects.  

During Audrey’s time serving on the ABAS Board, she helped facilitate a number of projects. She co-planned a Climate Watch bird survey event in winter 2024 at Strawtown Koteewi Park in Cicero. This survey tracked specific bird species that are more vulnerable to the effects of climate change. In summer 2025, with increased participation from ABAS members and Board members, she was able to double the number of survey locations spanning across Hamilton County. Audrey also coordinated several park clean-up events at popular birding locations in the ABAS service area. In partnership with Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation and Indy Parks, she facilitated clean-ups of shorelines and woodlands in multiple parks. Lastly, Audrey helped coordinate the Birds & Brews events with the Great Lakes Chapter of National Audubon Society. These public events brought in local conservation experts and advocates to talk about the efforts in our communities to protect birds and their habitats.

When asked about her time on the board, Audrey shared, “I enjoyed providing opportunities for birders to participate in citizen science through the Climate Watch surveys as well as connecting fellow birders to each other. I find it amazing to watch the willingness of birders to share their knowledge, experiences, and favorite spots to bird with new birders. As a newer birder myself, I felt extremely welcomed from the beginning.” 

Most recently, Audrey held the position of Planning and Projects Manager at Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation. She also served as Natural Resource Coordinator and oversaw nature programs, citizen science volunteers, and natural resources management within Carmel parks. In December 2024, Audrey moved to Chelan, Washington, to work in their parks department as the Assistant Director. 

Our thanks and well wishes go to Audrey for her time on the ABAS board!