You might be surprised to know that when I’m not birding I’m an active member of the Group Against Smog and Pollution (GASP), a 47-year old non-profit that fights for clean air in western Pennsylvania.

My history with GASP goes back to the late 1990’s when Pittsburgh’s mayor proposed a new coke plant at Hazelwood just after LTV’s heavily polluting plant closed in 1998.  I live one mile as the crow flies from that site and had to breathe LTV’s proof that their coke plant polluted too much to stay open.  When the plant closed, we suddenly had clean air so the prospect of new pollution was frightening.  LTV changed my life.  They made me fight for good air quality.

My concern extends to birds, too.  We don’t often think about it but what’s bad for our health is also bad for wildlife.  Clean air is for the birds? You bet!

On September 30 I’ll speak on this topic at GASP’s annual fundraiser. Held at the National Aviary, the event includes private admission, three live bird encounters, craft making for kids, auctions, and great food.  It’s a family friendly event with lots of birds.

GASP will also present a Lifetime Achievement Award to Board member Walter Goldburg, PhD who helped found GASP in 1969.  Walter has inspired us all.

For more information, click here or on the event logo below:

It’s a fundraiser so tickets are…
Members: $50
Non-Members: $65 (includes membership)
Child: $20

Register online here.

Clean air is for the birds … and people too!

(GASP Night at the Aviary logo)