As the seasons shift and the river flows on, we find ourselves saying farewell to one of our most dedicated Citizen Scientists, Mark Tomes, who will be embarking on a new journey at the end of this month. While we’re sad to see him go, we are incredibly grateful for the time, energy, and passion he has poured into protecting the St. Marys River.
To recognize his outstanding commitment, St. Marys Riverkeeper is proud to present Mark with a Volunteer Appreciation Award, a small token of our immense appreciation for his role in our mission.
Mark began his journey with us in early 2023, after hearing about the opportunity to participate in water quality testing through a joint training at the Okefenokee Swamp with the Satilla and St. Marys Riverkeeper organizations. By August of that year, he was independently testing four designated creek sites in western Nassau County—steadily and reliably, month after month.
What stands out most about Mark is his dedication to science-based conservation. As he puts it:
“The St. Marys Riverkeeper organization is full of dedicated conservationists who are science- and data-driven. They are passionate about keeping our waterways healthy and thriving, so that the people and ecosystems dependent on them stay healthy and thriving, as well.”
Mark’s efforts reflect the very heart of our mission—to protect the St. Marys River now and for future generations through advocacy, science, and community action. His commitment has directly contributed to our expanding water quality monitoring efforts, a key priority in our 2024–2027 Strategic Plan, and helped build a deeper sense of community stewardship along the riverbanks.
Beyond his role with Riverkeeper, Mark has been a passionate environmental advocate throughout the state, lending his time and talents to Northeast Florida Conservation Organizations Network, Audubon EagleWatch, Horseshoe Crab Watch, the Turtle Survival Alliance, and many more. From shorebird stewarding to freshwater turtle surveys, his work speaks to a lifelong love for Florida’s wild spaces.
Mark, thank you for your unwavering support, your scientific curiosity, and your love for the St. Marys River. Your legacy will ripple through the work we continue to do—stream by stream, sample by sample.
As you paddle forward into your next chapter, know that you’ve left our waters—and our hearts—a little cleaner, a little wiser, and a whole lot fuller.
With gratitude,
Your St. Marys Riverkeeper Team
