Jerry Bauer

Luquillo

Jerry Bauer (Retired, Biological Scientist, International Cooperation, USDA Forest Service, International Institute of Tropical Forestry) has more than 50 years of experience working in the Latin America and Caribbean Region with the US Forest Service’s International Institute of Tropical Forestry, the U.S. Agency for International Development and the U.S. Peace Corps. Jerry has worked extensively with sustainable development programs in rural development, natural resources, ecotourism, and parks & protected areas throughout the Latin America and Caribbean Region and in training local counterpart personnel in the techniques of conservation and heritage interpretation. He has written several scientific articles and often presents at professional conferences and seminars. Jerry is also a professional photographer and uses his photography as a tool to help create awareness for conservation needs and to raise funds for protection of natural resources. His photographs are widely published in magazines, books, and tourism promotional material throughout the region. Jerry holds both a B.S. and an M.S. degree in Forest Resource Management. He is also a Certified Interpretive Guide by National Association of Interpretation and Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Forestry at Southern Illinois University. He is a member of the National Association for Interpretation, the North American Nature Photography Association, The American Forest Association, The Puerto Rico Association of Nature Photographers, and other professional associations. Jerry has received more than 60 awards and honors for his contribution to conservation, sustainable development, communications, capacity building and public service. These include two USFS Chief Awards for Applying Knowledge Globally, USFS New Century of Service Award, Unsung Hero Award from Organization of Professional Employees of the USDA, Outstanding Service Award from the Mesoamerican Society for Biology and Conservation, The Thomas Belt Award, USFS The Wings Across Americas International Partnership Award, National Association for Interpretation Meritorious Service Award, Outstanding Alumni of the Year, Department of Forestry, Southern Illinois University, USAID Extra Mile Award for superior performance, Special Recognition from U.S. Ambassadors, and more than 30 USFS awards for Superior Performance and Certificates of Merit. In addition, Jerry has won more than 25 honors for conservation photography including the North American Nature Photography Associations Mission Award and Showcase Award.