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JOHN RIPLEY FORBES 1913 - 2006
After moving to Atlanta in 1971, Forbes organized and established natural science centers such as the Outdoor Activity Center and the Chattahoochee Nature Center. In 1976 Forbes founded the nonprofit Southeast Land Preservation Trust to preserve Atlanta's increasingly scarce open space. In January of 1989, John Ripley Forbes first learned of a beautiful forest in Sandy Springs about to be marketed as land suitable for a car dealership. Upon visiting the property he was awed by the beauty of the forest and felt it should be saved for use as an urban forest education center. He thought the large trees were so historic and inspiring, that immediate action was needed to preserve the forest for the enjoyment of future generations. Through a co-operative partnership with Southeast Land Preservation Trust, Fulton County, the State of Georgia and private citizens, a total of 30 acres of this forested land was purchased. For over a decade, Forbes has worked to develop and promote Big Trees Forest as a Tree, Plant and Wildlife Sanctuary and Urban Forest Education Center. Through his leadership, this special place has evolved as a model in urban forest preservation, management, stewardship and use. This special preserve is a living legacy to John Ripley Forbes' commitment to conserving our natural heritage for future generations. More information about Mr. Forbes here CHARLES S. "CHARLIE" COCHRANE 1946 - 2007
Charlie laid out and built the trail systems in the forest and then directed thousands of volunteers over the years to maintain and improve the trails and the preserve. Charlie loved working with and motivating volunteers. He was enthusiastic and knowledgeable and his great personality and love of the forest were contagious. He worked tirelessly to motivate and mentor volunteers of all ages from students to senior citizens. Charlie Cochrane passed away in 2007 while at work at the preserve. Charlie set a high standard for the care of this preserve and his legacy will always be the yardstick by which we measure the stewardship of this beautiful forest.
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John
Ripley Forbes is recognized as the nation's foremost authority on the
development and organization of natural science centers and wildlife sanctuaries
for youth. He has personally founded 24 centers and 15 tree, plant and
wildlife sanctuaries totaling more than 3,500 acres. As founder of the
Natural Science for Youth Foundation, the oldest and most experienced
organization of its kind, he has assisted 226 communities in 31 states.
Charles S. "Charlie" Cochrane was the first director of the John Ripley Forbes Big Trees Forest Preserve. He served for over 10 years in this capacity and worked tirelessly to protect the forest, build trails, and promote the forest to individuals, government, and business leaders.