Bob Lee, Executive Director of the Virginia Outdoors Foundation, was recently honored as "Conservationist of the Year" by the Land Trust of Virginia. In fact, according to LTV President, "this is a lifetime achievement award. Bob is a great conservationist who has contributed to land conservation for many decades."

Don Owen, Executive Director of the Land Trust of Virginia said, "We are delighted to honor Bob, who is one of the nation's foremost authorities on land conservation. He has been at the helm of the Virginia Outdoors Foundation for the past eight years, guiding an organization that has protected more land than any other organization in the history of land conservation in Virginia."

"Bob is a powerful advocate for conservation, who has protected many of Virginia's priceless natural and historic resources."

Prior to joining the Virginia Outdoors Foundation in 2005, Lee was the County Administrator for Fauquier County from 1990 to 2004, and County Administrator for Clarke County from 1978 to 1990.

He received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Government from the College of William & Mary, and his Masters in Policy Planning and Regional Analysis from Cornell University.

"Bob's inclusive and inspiring approach to conservation is a tremendous benefit for us all," added LTV Chairman Birge Watkins. "Even as the head of one of the largest public land trusts in America, Bob has been an advocate for private land trusts. He has recognized that private land trusts can partner with a state agency like VOF, to accomplish even more.

"In particular, I want to note that Bob has been a very good friend of the Land Trust of Virginia, as well as, many other conservation organizations. For years, LTV and VOF have worked hand-in-hand to secure dozens of important easements."

"So today we honor Bob for his leadership and inspiration in land conservation... For his love of the land, and for his appreciation of our rural heritage…

For his success in preserving thousands of acres of significant open space throughout Virginia…

For his many years of dedicated service… and for his support of and assistance to the Land Trust of Virginia."

Lee has accepted many appointments throughout his distinguished career, including appointments to the Shenandoah River Basin Committee, the Virginia Commission on Population Growth and Development, the Virginia Municipal Liability Pool Insurance Program, the Farmland Preservation Task Force.

In addition, Lee has served on the Boards of the Foundation of the State Arboretum, the Great Meadow Foundation, and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.

The Virginia Outdoors Foundation is Virginia's leading land conservation organization, protecting 650,000 acres in more than 100 counties and independent cities in Virginia, primarily through the use of conservation easements.