Remembering Steve Clemants
Dr. Steven Earl Clemants (22 July 1954 - 2 November 2008)
Leading botanist, plant conservationist, environmental educator
It is with great sadness that we commemorate Steve Clemants, the President of the BGCI US Board and Vice-President of Science, Publications and Library at Brooklyn Botanic Garden - to name just two of his positions of expertise.
Steve loved wildflowers as a boy and this deep-rooted inherent passion became his life's work; he leaves a remarkable legacy of scientific, conservation and educational achievements.
“The one word that comes to mind immediately is commitment. Another is openness. He was one of the most committed people I have ever met with regard to understanding preserving what little remains of our natural heritage. His ability to engage scientists, academics, students, and the general public was truly remarkable. And he took very little, or no, credit for his vision and accomplishments. His commitment extended to (or maybe emanated from) his relationship with his wife. To top it all off, he had a great sense of humor and a ready laugh. I sorely miss him.” wrote Christopher P. Dunn, Director Harold L. Lyon Arboretum in Honolulu, Hawaii.
We at BGCI will miss his steady gentleness at the helm of our US Board. We must strive to continue his work.
A living memorial has been set up in honour of Dr. Steven Clemants to plant native plants in the New York City parks system.
Checks can be made out to “City Parks Foundation” and can
be sent to:
Dr. Steven Clemants Wildflower Fund
City Parks Foundation
c/o Greenbelt Native Plant Center
3808 Victory Blvd.
Staten Island, N.Y. 10314
