But why?

[Duck Tape]

Palmetto picked up on the vibe.

Are you conservationist if you are "paid" through tax credits for your easement?

If the public has no access to the easement do you deserve the tax credit?

If mitigation is required for you to develop does that count has a conservation effort on your part?

At best I give you partial credit for the above but no medal.

My personal contributions to conservation began as a DU committee member and progressed to area chairman of the year, regional director, state wide conservation board, life sponsor, legacy sponsor. DNR board, Founding President of Flyway Foundation. Santee Cooper Aquatic vegetation Committee. Delta, Turkey and others.

But the greatest gift from me is the donation of 50% of my productive time for 19 years to serve in the State House and make it to the exact point I wanted, the Chair of the budgets of DNR and the Conservation Bank. It is that precise chairmanship that allows me to direct your hard earned tax dollars to support and enhance our outdoor experience. And for that, all I hear is you are a no good career politician.

I don't need or expect a medal. I don't need a thank you. I do it because I love my state and it's natural resources.