The Morgan Duke Conservation Society is a 501(c)(3) public charity nonprofit organization committed to addressing environmental challenges and conflicts across New York State and beyond. We focus on wildlife habitat management and forest conservation through partnerships, innovative solutions, and educational outreach.
Our Vision:
At the Morgan Duke Conservation Society, our vision is to create thriving habitats where wildlife can flourish without human interference. We aim to protect areas where environmental challenges are minimized, allowing people to enjoy the beauty of forests, beaches, and wildlife free from the impact of pollution.
Our Story:
The Morgan Duke Conservation Society was founded in 2013 by James Sullivan, inspired by his experiences camping with his family in the undeveloped, dense forests of the Lake George Wild Forest in the Adirondack Forest Preserve. Over the years, James witnessed significant environmental damage, including vandalism and vegetation destruction caused by visitors. The Hudson River Recreation Area in the Lake George Wild Forest motivated James to establish the Society, and in 2014, he signed the first Volunteer Stewardship Agreement with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to protect this vital ecosystem.
The organization began with a small group of volunteers, including James’ family members, who dedicated their weekends to activities such as litter collection, outhouse maintenance, and tree planting for reforestation. These efforts were crucial in restoring the land, once owned by a utility company that logged the area for utility poles. As the appointed Volunteer Steward through the DEC, James witnessed various challenges, including underage drinking, reckless vehicle use, and other disruptive behaviors.
In response to the increasing environmental pressures, particularly after the onset of COVID-19, James decided to expand the organization’s efforts beyond New York. The Morgan Duke Conservation Society now operates in additional states, including Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina’s Outer Banks, and other locations within New York State, such as the Adirondack Forest Preserve and Catskill Park.
Who Is Morgan Duke?
Many people ask about the origins of our name, “Morgan Duke.” The name honors two beloved boxer-breed dogs owned by James Sullivan. Morgan, who loved the ocean, and Duke, who cherished the outdoors, inspired the name. Their love for nature reflects our commitment to preserving natural spaces.
Mary Walker served as the Director of Community Outreach and was a valued Board member of the Morgan Duke Conservation Society. She was also the mother of James Sullivan, the Society’s founder. During their summer camping trips in the Adirondacks, Mary and James would spend time engaging with local businesses in the town of Lake Luzerne, advocating for environmental conservation and the mission of the Morgan Duke Conservation Society. Mary was particularly passionate about educating others on the importance of trees for the environment and air quality. Her efforts successfully inspired many local businesses in Lake Luzerne to become involved in conservation efforts.
Mary Walker grew up on Old Stage Road in Lake Luzerne and was deeply connected to the Hudson River Recreation Area—a place that greatly influenced James in founding the organization. In April 2023, Mary was diagnosed with small cell lung cancer. Despite her courage and determination, she passed away on September 27, 2023. Her loss was deeply felt by the entire organization. Mary was a dedicated conservationist who tirelessly advocated for the protection of the Hudson River Recreation Area. Her legacy continues through the Morgan Duke Conservation Society, which has established the Mary Walker ADK Conservation Fund at Adirondack Trust Company. All funds raised will support ongoing efforts to protect the ecosystem, preserve wildlife habitats, and organize community cleanup events at the Hudson River Recreation Area.
You may send a check payable to Morgan Duke Conservation Society C/O Mary ADK Conservation Fund, PO BOX 114, Rock Tavern, NY 12575. Alternatively, you can visit an Adirondack Trust Company branch and inform the tellers that you would like to make a donation by depositing it into the Mary Walker ADK Fund Account. Our EIN is 46-2255893.
Lake George Branch
Address: 350 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845
Queensbury Branch
Address: 376 Bay Road, Queensbury, NY 12804.