About Us

The Goal and Mission of the American Bald Eagle Foundation
The American Bald Eagle Foundation is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) educational foundation dedicated to the protection and preservation of bald eagle habitat through sponsoring and facilitating educational and research activities. We strive to make research available to everyone who wishes to live in greater harmony within the eagles' environment.


The Future
One of the Foundation’s objectives is to build a Research-Resource Center in Haines, close to the unspoiled natural laboratory of the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The research and instruction made possible by this Center will help interested citizens become more knowledgeable about the American Bald Eagle, its environment, and other animals that share that environment.

Construction began in the spring of 2010 to build a 48 x 80 foot Raptor Center attached to the existing natural history museum at the Foundation. In 2011, the raptor center will house up to three bald eagles which will be available for the public to view in a large flight enclosure, along with 9 Outdoor Mews to house other species of birds. These will be the birds that have been injured and are unable to return to the wild. Interpretive displays and educational bird programs will be held throughout the summer months.

Founder, Dave Olerud
Dave is not only a national trustee, he is also the founder of the American Bald Eagle Foundation. He has experienced just about every aspect of the true Alaskan pioneer.

Originally from Minnesota, he graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in education. In 1964 he and Charlotte, his wife, came to Alaska to teach. In addition to teaching, he has also served as the Mayor of Haines, president of the Chamber of Commerce, and president of the Independent Business Association for Alaska. His educational background, work within the private sector and his intensely independent mindset led him to create the ABEF.

Unfortunately, in 1987, during the early construction phase of the ABEF’s natural history museum, a collapsing wall fell on Dave, crushing his back and paralyzing him from the waist down. However, his spirit was unaffected and to this day he spends 30 – 40 hours per week in the museum giving wonderful presentations to the many thousands of visitors who come to the American Bald Eagle Foundation.

Boards

Executive Trustees

  • Dave Olerud, Alaska
  • Dr. Harold Williams, Alabama/Alaska
  • Dr. Dan Hart, Alaska

International Trustees

  • Dave Hancock, British Columbia
  • Susan Flowers, Georgia
  • Jim King, Alaska
  • Al Batt, Minnesota
  • Trustees Emeritus
  • Dr. Jim Scott, Alaska

Trustees In Memorium

  • Ed Shirley, Georgia
  • Gov. Jay Hammond, Alaska
  • Dr. Hans Fluehler, Quebec
  • Erv Boeker, Colorado

Staff

  • Dr. Dan Hart , Raptor Curator
  • Cheryl McRoberts, Director of Operations
  • William McRoberts, Photographer on Staff
  • Administrative Local Board
  • Michael Marks
  • Douglas Olerud
  • Ashley Sage
  • Evangeline Hoyt-Willard

 

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