Client: The Nature Conservancy

Project: Piney Grove Preserve

Video Duration: 3:46

Key Focus: Showing the role of fire in maintaining the pine savanna habitat and fostering appreciation for conservation efforts at Piney Grove Preserve.

In 2023, I had the honor of collaborating with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) to produce a captivating video for Piney Grove Preserve, a lesser-known property located in southern Virginia. TNC sought to shed light on the unique aspects of this preserve, which they manage in partnership with the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VA DWR) and other state and federal agencies.

The challenge was to find a compelling narrative amidst its diverse activities. Through careful exploration, I discovered that fire played a central role in maintaining the native pine savanna habitat, which is crucial to supporting endangered birds and mammals.

Over the course of six months, I was immersed in the preserve's changing landscape to capture its dynamic nature throughout multiple seasons. The heart of the story lay in the relationship between the native pine trees and the controlled fires conducted by the Burn Master, Bobby Clontz.

Filming Bobby's interview within the enchanting pine savanna allowed him to be immersed in the very essence of our narrative, but required me to provide all power for lighting equipment without disturbing the environment. The resulting video showcased the beauty of Piney Grove Preserve and underscored TNC's dedication to preserving this biodiverse ecosystem.

With this video, I aimed to educate and inspire audiences, evoking a deeper appreciation for conservation efforts at Piney Grove Preserve. Through the collaboration with TNC, I highlighted the critical role that fire plays in maintaining the delicate balance of this unique habitat.

This video showcased the dedication and commitment of TNC and its partners in protecting and preserving our natural world. Through this case study, I illuminated the untold story of Piney Grove Preserve, engaging viewers and contributing to the mission of safeguarding our natural heritage.