Robin Bedenbaugh is a celebrated, decorated, and beloved member of the VAWP community. With over 42 years of dedication to environmental conservation and restoration, Robin recently retired from full-time environmental consulting at RES.

A member of VAWP since 1994, Robin joined the board as Archivist in 1995 and has remained an invaluable and active member ever since. Throughout his time on the board, Robin has served as President twice and represented the organization as a board member for the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation’s Board of Professional Soil Scientists, Wetland Professionals, and Geologists. He has also worked tirelessly to maintain the integrity of the Professional Wetland Delineator certification in Virginia.

In addition to these accomplishments, Robin has organized and provided numerous training opportunities for VAWP members, including the renowned Mineral Soil Flatwoods delineation course. He routinely leads events such as rare plant walks through destinations like the Cherry Orchard Bog and currently serves as Chair of VAWP’s Certification Committee.
Robin’s contributions have been vital to the growth and success of VAWP. It is with great pleasure that the board presented him with a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his outstanding service during the 2024 Annual Fall Meeting.

VAWP 2025 Winter Newsletter, Volume 1, Issue 1. Authors: Alexi Weber-Smith and Robert Sullivan. Date: February 24, 2025

Photos: Robin receives Lifetime Achievement Award and standing ovation at VAWP’s 2024 Fall Meeting; Robin presenting at VAWP’s 2024 Spring Meeting in honor of the organization’s 30th anniversary; Robin leading a rare plant walk at the Cherry Orchard Bog; tree hugger Robin