March 2008 • Vol. 87: No. 2 : Cover Story Preserving a legacy Before Eugene Odum died in 2002, he made sure that his commitment to holistic ecology would extend beyond the boundaries of academia Before Eugene Odum died in 2002, he made sure that his commitment to holistic ecology would extend beyond the boundaries of academia. Beech Creek Preserve, a 16-home neighborhood on the banks of the Middle Oconee River, is part of Odum’s legacy to UGA and to the Athens community. Odum left 25 acres of woodlands to the university, stipulating that it be sold to generate revenue for the then-Institute, now School of Ecology. From that, $1 million was set aside for a professorial chair in Odum’s name. The rest was to be used to endow the Eugene and William Odum Ecology Fund, to benefit the school. Several homes already are built in Beech Creek Preserve, off West Lake Drive. Odum stipulated how the land should be developed once it was sold. UGA worked hand-in-hand with the Oconee River Land Trust to ensure that the development would be environmentally friendly. The property was sold to John Willis Homes, which has a history of ecological stewardship. Nearly 60 acres of the land remain green space, including 15-acres along the riverfront. Walking trails follow the river, providing a natural common area for residents of the subdivison. For information on Beech Creek Preserve, contact Christy Baker Jenkins, christy@cjandl.com, 706/540-8787. © Copyright 2005 UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA