An Extraordinary Resident's Contributions to Deer Park
May 2008 - The Vehe Farm Foundation thanks John Wagner for his years of community service.
Stewardship Leader of Vehe Farm Prairie - Eight Years of Community Commitment
Through the trained eye, personal commitment, and unassuming leadership of John Wagner, the approximate eight acres of Vehe Farm prairie have gone from being environmentally poor grass field to award-winning prairie. He shepherded buckthorn and wild rose clearing, planting and seeding of native prairie plants, nurturing and planting of the wetland, and training of a dedicated group of volunteers. He personally planted well over 2,000 wetland plants and another 1,000 prairie plants and spent hundreds of hours preparing seed for broadcasting on the Farm.
Through his long-term involvement with Citizens for Conservation, John created a lasting partnership between that organization and Vehe Farm. And, as the result, CFC has donated thousands of dollars of seed and material to the Farm. His work in this regard was the first community partnership forged on behalf of Vehe Farm.
John taught the Vehe Farm prairie volunteers not only prairie and wetland restoration techniques but also a true understanding and soulful appreciation of the wonder of nature. Through his teaching, the volunteers are well prepared to continue what his efforts have created.
The accolades for the approximate eight acres of prairie and wetland include the 2004 Conservation and Native Landscaping Award from the Midwest Environment Protection Agency and Chicago Wilderness and environmental sanctioning by the National Wildlife Federation and the National Audubon Society.
John's environmental conscience and unassuming spirit will long be a part of Vehe Farm. His presence will be felt in the prairie, the wetlands and the five oak trees he planted. And the quality of life in Deer Park will benefit from his contribution.
It has been an honor to know and work with John at Vehe Farm. He's been a great leader and friend. We wish him well in Mexico. Adios, Amigo!
