Ron Beach, a former PennDOT traffic technician supervisor of 30 years and former Game Commission Deputy Game Protector of 20 years, has continued his passion for wildlife into his retirement.
While serving at the Game Commission, Ron’s main responsibilities were law enforcement, which consisted of investigations, arrests, and court appearances. He met with land owners, presented public programs, and taught hunter education.
Ron also volunteered to assist Game Commission wildlife biologists with research on black bears, coyotes, and bobcats -- which he found very rewarding.
“If you showed an interest in learning about wildlife, they were more than willing to share their knowledge,” said Ron. “The knowledge that I gained is attributed to these wildlife professionals that I had the distinct pleasure to work with.”
Ron has continued his wildlife work after his professional career. He spends time as a citizen scientist working with mammals, as well as barred owls and American kestrels.
Some of the organizations he works with are: The Wildlife Society; Lycoming Audubon Society; The National Wildlife Federation; and American Kestrel Partnership.
Ron shares his passion and knowledge with others.
He enjoys working with young people, and is involved in presenting classes in conjunction with the Audubon Society, DCNR’s Bureau of Forestry, and the Clean Water Institute of Lycoming College to elementary and high school students of Loyalsock, South Williamsport, Williamsport, and Muncy school districts
He also gives presentations to civic organizations about Pennsylvania wildlife, and is joined by college biology students to help with field work.
“I am not a professional educator, but I do enjoy sharing my knowledge and speaking with people, young or old, on wildlife and the environment,” said Ron. “I hope I can make just a little difference.”
Ron’s love of nature permeates through other parts of his life as well. He is an accomplished painter whose subjects often include Pennsylvania’s scenic vistas, farms, and wildlife.
“There wasn’t any question on what subjects to paint -- wildlife and landscapes were my only interests,” said Ron. “I believe painting makes you more aware of your surroundings and what you’re stepping over.”
While he would love to paint all the time, he cannot, saying, “It would become work.” So, Ron divides his time -- if he wants to paint a particular animal or bird, he does research about it. Ron lives in Montoursville.
Know of a good natured Pennsylvanian who is passionate about outdoor recreation and/or conservation that we should feature? Contact DCNR at ra-resource@pa.gov to nominate someone.
For more information on state parks and forests and recreation in Pennsylvania, visit DCNR’s website, Click Here to sign up for the Resource newsletter, Visit the Good Natured DCNR Blog, Click Here for upcoming events, Click Here to hook up with DCNR on other social media-- Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Flickr.
(Reprinted from the February 21 DCNR Resource newsletter. Click Here to sign up for your own copy.)
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