Q & A with Jeff Chapman
Jeff Chapman
Jeff Chapman is the director of the Audubon Center at Debs Park in Los Angeles. The last 12 months have arguably been the best ever for the Audubon Center at Debs Park. After celebrating its fifth anniversary in 2008, the Center saw records highs for visitors, education program participation and outdoor programming.
Does it seem like the Center has come a long way in a short time?
Initially, going from a blank slate in the park to this Center and this kind of presence was exciting. Then our exuberance was replaced by the reality that we had a lot of lessons to learn and a lot of work to do, and ever since it has just been this terrific growing experience.
What have been the challenges?
It was harder work to get people to the Center than we expected. Although we were working with a new audience for Audubon, we assumed that “if you build it, they will come.” And it just didn’t work out that way. We had to establish trust and build relationships in this community, and we are now beginning to see that pay off.
What made last year different?
Two things have helped this year: our plan and our people. About two years ago, with the support of the Annenberg Foundation, we developed a strategic plan. This has served as our road map towards success. But without Gabriela, Rosa, Ximena, Victoria, Patty and Raul, none of this would be possible. They bring this place to life and keep everything running smoothly.
Do you have a favorite program?
I love leading our summer evening hikes. Last summer, I had a group of about 60 adults and kids. They were loud and excited to be out in the park after dark. I took them to a place where I knew a Western Screech Owl roosted. I told the group that we were going to try to be quiet and listen for a minute. About 10 seconds in, the owl called. It was awesome to see the looks on everyone’s faces.
Has being at the Center given you an opportunity to learn, and if so, what’s the most interesting thing you’ve learned lately?
Environmental education is all about life-long learning, and hopefully I learn new stuff every day. I recently learned that California ground squirrels, when threatened by a rattlesnake, can send blood to their tails, heating it up. For the snakes, whose vision is heat sensitive, this makes the squirrel appear larger, and less appetizing. Can’t wait to share that one with the third graders.
As a native Angeleno, is it gratifying to be doing this work in L.A.?
Of course. I am honored to be a part of this project that is helping Audubon build new constituencies for conservation that are reflective of the diversity of the state. And given the fact that this is a park poor community, I am honored to help facilitate opportunities for kids and their families to get out into nature right in the middle of the city. This was the reason that I was drawn to this project seven years ago, and seeing urban kids get these opportunities is what keeps me here.
What’s your favorite outdoor space – other than the Center, of course:
Definitely the South Yuba River. I’ve spent a lot of days there watching dragonflies and bats.
What’s your favorite nature book?
The first that comes to mind is Turtle Island by Gary Snyder. The essay “Four Changes” is really a forward-thinking piece on the environment. Very thought-provoking.
