Proposed by Chatham Garden Club, Elizabeth Neal Davenport, better known as Betty by family and friends, is a member of many accomplishments. The nomination submitted by her club stressed her promotion of knowledge of our natural resources and their wise use with the transformation of 1300 acres of her farm land into a nature preserve. 266 acres of the property have been made into a wetland bank. The goal at Bannister Bend Farm has been to construct, restore and preserve wildlife habitat with a mix of streams, riparian areas, wetlands and adjacent uplands which further enhance and compliment the functions of the Bannister River and Stinking Creek. The Bannister Bend Mitigation Bank can sell wetland and stream credits to offset unavoidable impacts to aquatic resources that may arise from future construction projects.
Conservation easements have been placed on the farm river banks. A pond has been a dedicated project of Ducks Unlimited to provide nesting space for ducks. Virginia Tech students have identified trees and plants along a designated nature trail, open to school groups and clubs.
Betty has ensured that no birds go hungry on the preserve. Over 70 blue bird and wood duck homes are located on the Bannister Bend Farm.
The most recent project is a 10 acre wildflower garden, bordered by 3 pollinator gardens. Plantings of black dutch clover and persimmon trees contribute to Bannister Bend Farm providing a self-sustaining habitat for all that make the land their home.
Betty has been a member of Chatham Garden Club for more that 50 years. During her membership she has served as President, Vice President, Treasurer and Garden Tour Chair. She is currently working on the Centennial Celebration of Chatham Garden Club.
With her husband, Ben, she has been influential in having Virginia Tech develop a master plan for the revitalization of Chatham. The master plan included the planting of gardens at the entrances of Chatham as well as planting various garden spots throughout town. The plan was so successful, it served as a catalyst for the community to unite to revitalize downtown.
Betty’s record of service in local and state organizations cover more than 40 years. She has truly rendered outstanding service in the dissemination of knowledge of the natural resources of our Commonwealth- and promoted their wise use. On behalf of the Conservation Awards Committee, it’s an honor to award the de Lacy Gray Memorial Medal for Conservation to Betty Davenport.
