1. You should expect to receive the Annual Appeal mailing from MFS in the next few weeks. The Annual Appeal is the major fundraiser for the Station. In 2019, individual donations comprised about 34% of MFS income, with 59% from User Fees and 7% from Grants. We hope that you have seen, or heard about, positive changes that are occurring at Malheur Field Station and will continue your support.

2. The Great Basin Society Board met last Friday. My Board term was up at that meeting and I decided to retire from the Board after 14 years. To be clear, thankfully I am not leaving the Board under duress or because I am unhappy with anybody in the organization. I think the organization is in better shape than any time since I have been on the Board. I plan to stay involved with MFS, just not in an administrative role.

3. At the last Board meeting, a new Board member was brought on – Scott Bowler from Sisters. I believe he will do a great job for you as a Board member.

4. I wish to thank all of you for your emotional and financial support over the last few and might I say, very challenging, years. Malheur Field Station might not have survived except for your shared sense of community and a common cause. The Board and Staff very much appreciate your dedication to MFS.

I hope to see you around!

Vern Beeson