Clyde Butcher hopes photographs inspire preservation

2007 Emmy Winner: Arts and Entertainment
Preston Rudie, Gene Yeagle

2007 Emmy Winner: Editor (News)
Gene Yeagle

Clyde Butcher, Photographer

Well, I didn't understand Florida and I think people need to understand their own environment to appreciate it.

That appreciation is also why Butcher hopes his work inspires others to think about conservation and preservation.

Clyde Butcher, Photographer

When I'm out here by myself, I'm wondering, is this going to be here in 20 years?

Butcher will often spend hours on swamp walks, looking for that perfect picture. He says the time with Mother Nature has made him realize the importance of protecting nature.

Clyde Butcher, Photographer

This world of ours, how can it get any better than this? I mean the different places around this planet are fantastic and we don't appreciate how wonderful a planet we have. I just come back here and say wow; I wouldn't want to lose this.

On Friday, an exhibit of Butcher's work will open at the Gulf Coast Museum of art in Largo. The exhibit titled, "The American Wilderness" runs until January 28^th.

Butcher, who is often called the "Ansel Adams of Florida", will be at the museum for a reception and seminar on December 1^st and 2^nd.

• www.clydebutcher.com