You Can Make a Difference

Chris Vogel is a long time environmental activist and volunteer for the Committee for Green Foothills. She has volunteered in the CGF office since 1999, helping out with mailings, proofreading, letter writing and data entry. Chris recently spoke with CGF's Office Coordinator Velma Gentzsch about her commitment to our local environment.

What first sparked your interest and concern for the environment?
In the 70s, I became aware of Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (MROSD) properties and was blown away by the beautiful space and wildlife. I began donating to MROSD and enjoying "my land" more and more.

After I retired, in 1991, I attended a presentation at the Phleger Estate at the time of acquisition. Audrey Rust, then CEO and President of Peninsula Open Space District, spoke and I was putty in her hands. I began volunteering at POST doing indexing and historical research on Cowell Ranch Beach for the signage. A few years later, I began volunteering at Greenbelt Alliance, writing three brochures on 'A Perfect Day in the Greenbelt' and doing various jobs in the office.

Why did you come to CGF?
Because it is local! I don't want to see the world paved over any more than it is. The more we can save, the better off we all are - breathing fresh air and enjoying the quiet. Which is how I started off the new year, with a seven-mile loop hike in Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve.

Why do you volunteer?
Because it's good for the soul and because of the organizations where I volunteer. It is satisfying to pursue something on a volunteer basis that supports all of my ideals and spaces that I live in.

What else are you involved in?
I am concerned with first amendment issues. I am on the board of Midcoast Park Lands, which works to manage and maintain 40-acre Quarry Park in El Granada. I still volunteer at POST as an Open Space Guardian (at Tunitas Creek) and help restore habitat (remove Pampas grass) at Cloverdale Coastal Ranch. And, of course, I still help Greenbelt Alliance.

What is your greatest contribution?
Helping to save open space in my own little way.

Chris' contribution is hardly little. Her dedication to CGF and the open space we all love is deeply appreciated. Her smiling face, sense of humor and passion for life are worth more than all the envelopes she's ever mailed for us. Thank you, Chris, for being one of our stellar Green Feet!