American Rivers Staff Mourns the Loss of Teddy Betts

July 12, 2010 | Dams & Dam Removal

Serena McClain
Director, River Restoration, Federal Grants

The river community lost a valiant warrior last month. Teddy Betts, a board member for Friends of the Patapsco Valley & Heritage Greenway and protector of the Patapsco, passed away on June 26.

Having only met twice, Teddy and I were just at the beginning of our journey to restore the Patapsco. Despite the brevity of our relationship, Teddy’s kind heart and passion for protecting the wild and wonderful Patapsco River were immediately evident. He lived and breathed the river, paddling its cool waters and serving as a tireless watchdog as part of the Stream Watch Program. I will never forget trying hiking along the Baltimore County sewer line as Teddy pointed out large metal debris that had washed downstream and all that he wanted to do to clean up the Patapsco. 

More than just an advocate for the river, Teddy was also an artist. He turned fallen tree limbs into fine walking sticks that proclaimed, “Patapsco River: Take a walk on the wild side, hon.” He graciously passed one of these beauties along to me as we hiked the Patapsco, and it quickly became one of my favorite things. Teddy was also well-known for rock “sculptures” he created in the Patapsco. Years ago he began stacking river rocks as a way of honoring the beauty of the natural environment.

Teddy, I know how much you looked forward to seeing the Simkins Dam come out this fall and being able to paddle that uninterrupted section. We’ll be saving some rocks for you.

To learn more about Teddy, please read a moving tribute by his friend and colleague, Betsy McMillion. 

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