McSwain, a resident of the county, was named Volunteer of the Year by the Virginia Master Naturalist state program, and was the recipient of the Sierra Club Piedmont Chapter Earth Flag Award in 2025.

“From the wilderness area on the Priest Mountain to the James River, this verdant land was once home to animals that now live on only in history books,” McSwain says.

Facts will be part of her presentation include the most dangerous animal to humans in Virginia in the past and whether or not this animal still exists today. She will answer such questions as: What sounds used to fill the night air? Whose footprints could be seen in the snow? When was the best time to go fishing in the James? Do we really have fewer birds now than before? Do names matter?

McSwain will also talk about a few success stories that have preserved or restored wildlife species that were on their way out in past years

The program is sponsored by the Nelson County Historical Society and will be repeated at 3 p.m. if warranted. Oakland Museum is located at 5365 Thomas Nelson Highway across from Tye River Elementary School. Admission is free. Donations are welcome.