Jeff VanderMeer and VanderMeer Creative

Jeff VanderMeer, the New York Times bestselling author is a long-time supporter of the Friends of St. Marks Wildlife Refuge.  Recent contributions by VanderMeer Creative, which manages Jeff and his wife Ann’s creative projects and charitable giving, represent the fulfillment of Jeff’s pledge to donate book royalties from the critically acclaimed Southern Reach Trilogy. The trilogy takes place in Area X, a mysterious wilderness inspired by the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. The first book, Annihilation, was made into a movie in 2018. 

“Given Annihilation is based on the 13-mile hike I do out at St. Marks wildlife refuge, it seems only fair to give something back,” VanderMeer said. “The refuge is unique—one of the most biodiverse places in the country.”

The gift from VanderMeer Creative will sponsor an intern and supplies to help keep the refuge’s Frosted Flatwood Salamander program going after a federal grant expires in 2020.  This threatened amphibian has a much better chance of survival with management of the species by refuge staff.

In 2018, Jeff also gave his permission to the Friends to create and sell an Area X T-shirt, the proceeds from which go to the refuge programs.   And he has pledged a percentage of royalties from his latest novel, Dead Astronauts, to the refuge.

“We love this community and it’s very important to us to support the amazing wilderness and culture in the area,” VanderMeer said. “We’re so lucky to live in North Florida.” 

And we are so lucky to have YOU as a friend.