Beaufort County Administrator Gary Kubic unveiled the 2013 land preservation calendar Monday, November 26, during the regular meeting of Beaufort County Council.

Kubic also introduced the local photographers whose pictures were selected for the calendar from among more than 200 entered in the county’s annual photo contest. “Every year I say the new calendar is the best yet and I always believe it That statement is absolutely true again this year! The 2013 calendar theme ‘Birds of Beaufort County and Their Habitats’ reflects a relationship with local birding clubs for development of the calendar. It expands our outreach into the community and beyond and strengthens our partnership with citizens for this wonderful project,” Kubic said.

A photo by Patricia Roche of Bluffton, depicting “Mr. Charlie” a Great Blue Heron at Hunting Island State Park, was chosen for the cover. The annual calendar serves as a vehicle for information on the County’s Rural and Critical Land Preservation Program.

Kubic said the calendar should make meaningful holiday gifts.  “All proceeds benefit land preservation in our county. This program protects our environment, waterways and wildlife habitat from development. It saves tax dollars by eliminating the need for public services that come with development,” he said.

The 2013 calendar was designed by Pamela Brownstein. It retails for $15 and is available at the county website at www.bcgov.net or at the County Administration Building, 100 Ribaut Road; the Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce gift shop on Craven Street; the Beaufort Bookstore on Boundary Street; Fordham’s Market; the Downtown Marina Gift Shop on Bay Street; and at the Open Land Trust, 1001 Bay Street.
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