Dr. Paul Gray, Audubon Florida’s Everglades Science Coordinator, has won a prestigious partnership award.

On June 19th, Gray was named the “2019 Conservation Friend” by the Florida Cattlemen’s Association for his successful promotion and implementation of environmental conservation programs with private landowners.

Gray exemplifies the importance of working with the ranching community to add to the network of conservation lands, and partnering with private landowners is crucial when addressing water and conservation issues in Florida. Through his Audubon work, Gray has increased habitat connectivity between private and public conservation lands across the state, including the Florida Ranchlands Environmental Services Project, payment for ecosystem services initiatives, the Rural and Family Lands Program, conservation easements, best management practices funding, and more.

“We are grateful to be able to work with the cattlemen on projects that are beneficial to the people and wildlife of Florida,” Gray said at the June 19th award ceremony on Marco Island.

As Everglades Science Coordinator, Gray provides science support for Audubon policy teams on issues ranging from water quality, water management, agricultural best management practices, and ecosystem and bird conservation issues. Gray conducted his University of Florida graduate school research with ranches and dairy farms in Okeechobee before working for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and then Audubon Florida. He began his career with Audubon Florida as manager of the 7,300 acre Kissimmee Prairie Sanctuary.

Originally from St. Joseph, MO, just north of Kansas City, Gray has always loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing on his uncle’s farm. Gray’s educational background includes a bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri, a master’s degree from Texas Tech University, and a Ph.D. from the University of Florida. 

Audubon Florida is a state-wide nonprofit organization focusing on birds, other wildlife, and their habitats for the benefit of humanity and the earth’s biological diversity. Audubon Florida protects birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow.

The Florida Cattlemen’s Association, founded in 1934, is devoted entirely and exclusively to promoting and protecting the ability of cattlemen members to produce and market their products.