Friday, Oct. 10, 2008

Tapteal Greenway Association names conservationist of year

By the Herald staff

John A. Butterfield of Richland will be honored as Tri-Cities Conservationist of 2008 by the Tapteal Greenway Association at its annual celebration Saturday in Benton City.

The event is from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Kiona Winery, 44612 Sunset Road.

Complimentary hors d'oeuvres, wine and music will accompany the event, which is free to the public.

Butterfield has been active in the Tapteal association and other groups to promote public use of open space since retiring to the Tri-Cities in 2001. He has volunteered for Friends of Badger Mountain, the Richland Parks and Recreation Commission, the Dog Park Society and been a mentor for Restorative Community Service Crew.

Butterfield belongs to the Veterans of Foreign Wars and Military Officers Academy Association. He's a retired Navy aviator and has numerous commendations, including two Legion of Merit Awards, the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star with combat service and 21 Air Medals.

A lifelong runner and health enthusiast, Butterfield said he appreciates what the Tri-Cities has as natural outdoor amenities and those who've helped preserved those features.

Butterfield said he has worked with the association to build trails and improve the Amon Creek Preserve.

"I feel very fortunate to be a part of this organization," he said.

The program Saturday will include a silent auction and drawing to benefit Tapteal Greenway Association's activities. There will be reports about the association's efforts to build trails, restore native habitats and species, promote environmental education, enhance recreational opportunities and protect the Amon Basin and Yakima River corridors.

The Tapteal Greenway Association is a volunteer nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the natural character of the lower Yakima River between Richland and Benton City and to developing a trail system throughout the river corridor.

For more information about the association, call Kathy Dechter at 627-0950.