A crowd of more than 100 people gathered Friday, May 27, at the Oxbow National Wildlife Center in Devens for the dedication of a new visitor facility. Retired Fish and Wildlife Deputy Regional Director Bill Ashe was recognized for his years of service to the agency and his commitment to the environment. Family, friends, dignitaries, coworkers, and neighbors gathered to honor Ashe, whom colleagues described as a mentor and role model. The visitor center and a trail at the center have been named for him.
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From left: Massachusetts Representative Niki Tsongas, U.S Fish and Wildlife Director Dan Ashe, Betty Ashe, former U.S. Fish and Wildlife Deputy Regional Director Bill Ashe, State Senator Jamie Eldridge, and Harvard Selectwoman Lucy Wallace at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Bill Ashe Visitor Facility dedication ceremony, Friday, May 27, at the Oxbow National Wildlife Center in Devens.
Betty and Bill Ashe listen as their son, Dan Ashe, currently Director of the Fish and Wildlife Service, speaks about his father’s career.
Bill Ashe delivers a few words of his own as his son Dan looks on.
Overflow seating is set up outside the building during the ceremony.
The crowd gives Bill Ashe (center) a resounding standing ovation.
The Bill Ashe Trail eventually leads to a boat ramp on the Nashua River. .
The new facility has a boat launch for use by the public.
Visitors cross from the parking lot on an inviting stone pathway that leads to the new visitor center.
