Aldo Leopold Society

Supporting environmental science, public programming, and education at Cary.

Become a member of a dedicated group of environmental advocates
Join the Aldo Leopold Society

Members of the Aldo Leopold Society provide vital operating support for the Cary Institute's research and education programs. As a member, you will receive newsletters and invitations to events throughout the year, as well as special opportunities to interact with Cary Institute's educators and scientific staff.

100% of your donation supports Cary's science. Your donations to the Annual Fund cover costs not met by grants and endowment, allowing Cary Institute to find answers to some of the most pressing questions on earth. Opportunities also exist to designate funds for specific projects.

Aldo Leopold Society Donor Levels and Benefits

$750: Aldo Leopold Society Member

  • Reserved seating for two (2) at Friday Night Lecture Series
  • Newsletter (electronic and home-delivered versions)
  • Invitations to exclusive special events including our Ned Ames Lecture
  • Exclusive invitation to Aldo Leopold Society member Reception and Forest Walk
  • Exclusive tour of Cary Institute labs and select outdoor scientific projects
  • 10% off registration at Cary Institute’s Eco-Discovery summer camp for your immediate family

$1,500+: Benefactor

Everything an Aldo Leopold Society member receives plus…

  • Reserved seating for four (4) at Friday Night Lecture Series
  • VIP parking at Friday Night Lecture Series

$5,000+: Patron

Everything a Benefactor receives plus…

  • Personalized ‘Bring your budding scientists to Cary Institute day’. Create a memorable, inspiring experience with the budding scientists in your life (students of any age). Select one of the offered dates and our team will provide you and your guests with a personalized tour of our labs and select scientific projects plus a naturalist-led walk on the property.

$10,000+: Ambassador

Everything a Benefactor receives plus…

Select one:

  • Lunch with the scientist of your choice at a mutually agreed restaurant. It’s on Cary Institute!
  • Boat ride on the Hudson River with members of our Hudson River team as they go out to monitor and collect data. Includes light refreshments.

$15,000+: Cannoo Hill Circle

Everything a Benefactor receives plus…

  • Invite 12 of your friends to a private dinner at the Mary Flagler Cary Tea House. Cary Institute will cater the event and make your evening memorable.

If you would like more information about the Aldo Leopold Society, please contact the Development Office: via phone (845) 677-7600 x 203 or development@caryinstitute.org.

Aldo Leopold (1887-1948)

One of America’s pioneering conservationists, Aldo Leopold wrote many articles, essays, and books in his lifetime, but his greatest work was A Sand County Almanac (1949), which helped lay the foundation for the American conservation movement. The ideas, principles, questions, and concerns he raised continue to challenge and influence conservationists and individuals committed to responsible land management.

In recognition of the alignment of Cary Institute’s mission with Aldo Leopold’s life achievements, his family granted us permission to use his name for the Aldo Leopold Society. We are grateful for this honor.