After nearly three decades with Marion County Conservation, Naturalist Marla Mertz served her final day with the department on Friday. Mertz said that the decision to retire was difficult, but added that she is looking forward to being able to spend more time with family.

“For some reason, my mind says I can keep going, but now I’m starting to get a little slower and it’s a little harder to keep up with some things even though nature is a little slower than we are. I’ve got grandkids that I want to see and I want to be with, and I think that’s my main deal right now. I really want to be with my grandkids, and my family, and enjoy life a little bit.”

Mertz began working with Marion County Conservation in November 1995, and worked on monthly nature notes, educational programs, and various activities throughout her time with the department.