GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KKCO) — A local aviator hailing from the Grand Junction region recently took part in a countrywide initiative aimed at benefiting the environment.
The biggest non-profit organization in North America, LightHawk, initiated a summer campaign known as the 50 in 50 challenge. This effort rallied aviators nationwide to carry out 50 environmental monitoring flights within 50 days.
Stephen Meyer, a private pilot hailing from Grand Junction, undertook one such journey. The flight was geared towards spotting hanging gardens and other uncommon wetland varieties that often prove difficult to discern through satellite imagery.
Conservation flights, such as the one Meyer joined, involve capturing overhead images. These photographs aid in the preservation and protection of environmentally significant regions.
“I’m enhancing the transparency of what’s occurring outside. Addressing the damage that appears to be taking place, and working towards owning the issue with the aim to help resolve it or enhance the circumstances,” stated Meyer.
At first, Meyer didn’t even know he was going to be a part of the challenge. He said he was just going about his flight route as normal, which happened to overlap with the flights being counted during the challenge.
“I have been piloting flights; I’ve completed 34 individual missions over the last seven years with LightHawk, so this is simply part of my ongoing efforts,” stated Meyer.
Even though he carries out these conservation flights, piloting isn’t his primary occupation. Meyer has spent 40 years as a doctor. He undertakes these aerial missions during his free time.
“I believe that if one has the ability to contribute charitably, they ought to… Even though it requires spending money, utilizing resources, and investing time, I find it enjoyable and rewarding because I can directly observe the impact of my efforts,” explained Meyer.
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