Ron Simpson was presented the Jim Fowler Environmental Award at the Artesian Alliance’s Annual Meeting Tuesday, June 20 for his dedication to Wildlife Conservation and Education. 

The award was initially created in 2009 and features the sculpture “Windblown Tree” by artist Derek Taylor. The award is currently displayed at the Creekside Center at Chehaw. Previous recipients include Jim Fowler, Don Dally, Ben Kirkland, and Tommy Gregors. 

“Ron is a worthy recipient of this award,” said Executive Director of the Artesian Alliance, Tommy Gregors. “As a professional and private citizen, he is a passionate advocate for environmental conservation and has have contributed to the betterment of wildlife in Georgia. I am proud to have worked with Ron over the years and appreciate his knowledge, advice, and friendship.”

Simpson has been an Albany resident since 1966. He graduated from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Science in Forestry and a Masters in Science. His thesis was on the Bobwhite Quail in Georgia Piedmont. He worked for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources for 30 years as a District Biologist, Survey and Analysis Biologist, Quail Research Project Leader, and Statewide Turkey Restoration Project Leader. From 1995 to 1998 he served as the Regional Director for the Georgia Conservancy. He also worked as a Wildlife Management Consultant for quail plantations across Southwest Georgia and North Florida for 16 years.

Simpson has held leadership positions or been involved with various community groups including Porterfiel Methodist Church, an election precinct manager, President and Treasurer of Thronateeska Heritage Foundation, Quail Unlimited Hunt  Committee Chairman, President of Albany Sertoma, Past presidents Sertoma Clubs, Sunbelt Camera Club, Southwest Georgia Coin Club, Albany Audubon Society, Thronateeska Kennel Club, and the Wild Turkey Foundation. He is also a past recipient of the Georgia Wildlife Federation’s Conservationist of the Year.