Jason Dombroskie of Slaterville Springs, Tompkins County, NY

How long have you been involved as a volunteer?

Since 2015

What is your volunteer role at the Finger Lakes Land Trust?  What kinds of work do you do here?

I lead an annual public moth night where we set up lights and talk about the critters that come in from the dark. I also survey the insect biodiversity in various preserves and have so far documented over 400 species of moths.

Photo: Lynn Braband

Why do you volunteer?

To quote Thomas Huxley, “To a person uninstructed in natural history, his country or seaside stroll is a walk through a gallery filled with wonderful works of art, nine-tenths of which have their faces turned to the wall.” This is why I am eager to document the biodiversity and natural history of the area, and why I want to share this information with everyone.

What’s your favorite FLLT activity and/or preserve, and why? 

Steege Hill Nature Preserve. It is a botanically interesting spot and the moths are following suit.

Anything else you want to add?

Protect the land and nature will do the rest.