Field Naturalist: Larry Henry
Larry Henry devoted 14 years of his life to working in the Ohio State Parks as an administrator and naturalist. In mid-life, he left the service and co-founded Benevolence Bakery, and later, the Highlands Nature Sanctuary. Larry is one of those rare true naturalists. As a very young child he began what would become a lifetime devotion – a habit of spending uncounted hours in the fold of nature. Today he patiently “bears witness” to the magnificent beauty and painful destruction of the natural world. With uncanny ability, he can find the hidden nest of the ruffed grouse, call in a barred owl to hoot overhead on a dark moonless night, be the first to notice animal behaviors that less patient people would never see, and intuitively know when something is awry in the Sanctuary that needs attention. Larry is devoted to teaching nature literacy to students with sincere and committed interest. He is deeply concerned at the diminishing numbers of trained naturalists in a world in which nature is universally becoming a mental abstraction, a mere “backdrop.” Studying environmental worldly events for several hours each evening, he brings a wide planetary view to every person that he mentors, encouraging others to strive for personal empowerment and a commitment to the earth’s healing. He is passionate about passing the torch to a small but significant number of people belonging to the “next generation.” If you wish to speak to Larry directly, you may call him at 937-365-1600 or write him at naturalist@highlandssanctuary.org.