FOWR Member Spotlight - Jim Helmers!
Secretary of Friends of the Wekiva River
University of Dayton, BS in chemistry
The Ohio State University, M.D.
Emergency Medicine Physician
10 years propagating native plants at Biosphere Consulting Inc. part-time
Board member and volunteer Oakland Nature Preserve
Master tree farmer
Florida certified prescribed burner
Jim shared some of his background and hopes for the Wekiva Basin and answered a few other fun questions for us. Enjoy!
What's your earliest memory of the Wekiva River? People filling empty jugs with water from the spring boil to take home to drink in the 70's
What's your favorite animal and plant in the Wekiva Basin? River otter and longleaf pine.
What do you wish people knew about the river? The river is vital to our life and is irreplaceable.
What's your favorite thing about the river? The forests lining it's path.
Favorite memory on the river? Canoe trips from King's landing and tipping over in the river with extended family.
Biggest hope for the river's future? That the river will live forever in a pristine state.
How and why did you get involved with FOWR? A springs swimming friend knew my passion for nature and invited me to joint the FOWR board
Do you have any unusual skills or hobbies? Propagating native plants, growing trees and restoring forest land.
What do you like to do for fun? Hiking in the mountains.