I only had the pleasure of meeting Dr. David Hunt on two occasions.  As part of the conservation efforts of Friends of the Mahicantuck, Dr.Hunt led some field studies of rare fauna on the land at 1011 2nd. Ave in Troy, NY.  A kind, reclusive man – Dr. Hunt was the region’s foremost expert in botany and ecology of Rensselaer County.  In our two times in the field together, though short – I learned so much from him.  His knowledge and enthusiasm for the outdoors will be greatly missed.

Dr. Hunt attended Cornell University in NY and later University of Georgia to obtain his Ph.D. in Botany.

His focus was aimed specifically at Oak trees when he saw early in his studies down in Florida the rapid decline of a specific species of Oak called Florida Scrub Oak (Quercus inopina).

He had settled in Grafton, NY where he became the leading authority on the surrounding Rensselaer Plateau, protecting rare plants and habitats. His dedication to preservation was admired by many and he has earmarked part of his property to be donated to a local organization to be enjoyed years to come.

Some of the photos in this post were from our first meeting in the winter – searching for the scrub oak that David so loved – we were fortunate to find some that day despite the snow.