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Dale Weiler and Loti Woods share a passion for nature and for the underdogs in wildlife. Over the years they have been transforming the property around their Tryon home to incorporate more native plant species that support pollinators and other wildlife. 

 

As a gifted sculptor, Dale uses his art to inspire others. Through his creative talents, stone is transformed into creatures, with an emphasis on endangered species. He says the stone reveals to him what image will emerge, whether it be an owl, red wolves, a hellbender, or other wild animals. Dale’s red wolf castings have been freely distributed to numerous museums, zoos and conservation centers around the country, and he generously contributes the proceeds from sales of his work to Weiler Woods for Wildlife. 

 

Loti is a great connector. As Executive Director, she regularly interacts with people and related organizations, coordinates the data systems, maintains the website and writes fascinating blogs about endangered and misunderstood critters. Bats, bog turtles, frogs, and opossums are just a few of the other featured “underdogs” that face ecological challenges. 

 

This year Dale and Loti took their combined interests to a new level when they established the nonprofit organization to spread awareness about endangered and misunderstood wildlife. Their goal is to better understand and protect wildlife and to encourage others, including children, to become advocates for life that exists in the wild.

 

This fall Weiler Woods for Wildlife has presented programs about imperiled wildlife to more than 400 students in area schools. Focusing on the most endangered species in our region, talks feature visuals and film presented by Loti and Dale followed by engaging discussions with students. Incorporating art into the presentations gets kids excited to learn more about wild animals and their habitats. Since children will be the most profoundly impacted by choices made now, it’s important that they be included in these important conversations about conservation. 

 

With Weiler Woods for Wildlife growing at such a fast pace, Karen Dacey was recently lured out of retirement to serve as Outreach Coordinator. She is helping coordinate volunteers and assist with the expanding school programs, fundraising, and public relations. For anyone interested in getting involved, volunteers are welcome to contact Dacey at Karen@weilerwoods.com or call (828) 817-9843. Your help will be invaluable!

 

To learn more about the organization, please visit www.weilerwoodsforwildlife.com, contact Loti Woods at loti@weilerwoods.com or call (561) 308-2651. Donations and sponsorships will help support education and outreach aimed at wildlife conservation. The future needs our help now.