How long have you volunteered with Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy and how did you hear about us?

Norah Argodale

About 3 years ago, Norah went to the native plant sale at Morven Park, where she talked with LWC Audubon At Home volunteers. She was inspired by what they told her about native plants, signed up for a home visit, and got her yard certified. This led Norah to the Virginia Master Naturalist Program where she graduated in 2020.  Norah says “all of this opened up lots of possibilities to help our environment”.

What opportunities have you volunteered for/are signed up for?

Norah’s interests are diverse. She feels “there are so many important volunteer opportunities out there to get involved with and so much to learn. I’m also encouraged by all the other knowledgeable, wonderful volunteers that I meet along the way. They are an inspiration!” 

Last year, Norah signed up for bluebird monitoring and enjoyed it so much that she became a trail leader this season. She also joined the invasive garlic mustard pull at Balls Bluff Park, and the removal of invasives at JK Black Oak Wildlife Sanctuary this year. Norah put her plant knowledge to work by helping mark native plants for a future plant relocation project at JK Black Oak.

Norah participates regularly in bird walks and enjoyed the butterfly count back in August.  She helped with setup at the native plant sale and is looking forward to volunteering at the upcoming JK Black Oak plant relocation workday and at the Willowsford habitat restoration planting. Norah is also excited about participating in the LWC Walk for Wildlife during the month of October.

What is your favorite natural area in Loudoun County?

Norah says, “I don’t have a specific favorite area, but I love driving down the two-lane roads of western Loudoun, undisturbed by new construction. To see the beauty of the land, the trees, the birds, animals, butterflies, insects, other creatures and to know that they still have a habitat.”