The Compatible Lands Foundation is pleased to recognize Terry Banks, of Bowling Green, Virginia as our Military Readiness and Conservation Award honoree for 2022. Ms. Banks was selected in recognition of her years of dedication and service as the Environmental Chief at U.S. Army Garrison Fort A.P. Hill, Virginia. Fort A.P. Hill is a critical training and maneuver center focused on combined arms training that is used by all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.
During her tenure at Fort A.P. Hill, Ms. Banks was instrumental in guiding the Army Compatible Use Buffer (ACUB) program. Terry’s strategic vision, steadfast determination and compassionate leadership of Fort A.P. Hill’s ACUB program resulted in partnerships within the Lower Rappahannock River Basin and Chesapeake Bay Region that protected over 13,000 acres of private land in perpetuity. These lands harbor endangered species and protect nationally significant cultural resources. After 35 years of service, Ms. Banks retired from the position in December 2022.
The Military Readiness and Conservation Award was established by CLF to recognize Department of Defense Leadership, REPI partners, and landowners, who have made significant contributions to furthering the Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) program’s mission of protecting our military’s readiness while preserving our environment. Since 2016 CLF has honored key individuals for their contributions that help advance the REPI program.
“There is not a more deserving candidate to receive this award,” says Lt. Col. (R) Joe Knott, Executive Director of CLF. “In her position as Environmental Chief, Terry was tireless in her effort to advance the ACUB program at Fort A.P. Hill. Under her direction, Fort A.P. Hill protected more than 13,000 acres in the region. This recognition is a testament to her leadership in this effort.”
Protecting lands adjacent to Fort A.P. Hill, and all bases and installations, is critical to our Nation’s security as it not only secures environmental and economic benefits of working farmlands, but it also supports the military’s ongoing training operations that are threatened by potential nearby incompatible development.
For more information on the Compatible Lands Foundation or to learn how you can support the organization, go to: www.compatiblelands.org.