Margaret D. Lowman

Canopy Meg (born December 23, 1953) is an American biologist, educator, ecologist, writer, explorer, and public speaker.

For more than 30 years, she has designed hot-air balloons and walkways for treetop exploration to solve mysteries in the world's forests, especially insect pests and ecosystem health.

Her role is to strategize and promote the academy's mission for sustainability science, and to disseminate her team's accomplishments to groups ranging from elementary classes to corporate executives to international conferences.

Lowman oversaw the creation, construction, staffing, and programming of this research wing in partnership with the NC University system.

Her books on canopy ecology are not just about her field work but add dimensions in what it's like to be a woman in a male dominated profession, and what it's like to be a single parent mom.

In 1999 Lowman became the executive director of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota, Florida where she helped raise donations over 100 percent and increased membership by "friend-raising".

When the board shifted away from a botanical and conservation-oriented mission, Lowman accepted an offer at New College of Florida as Professor of Biology and Environmental Studies.

Lowman co-founded the TREE Foundation, along with Sarasota non-profit accountant Mike Pender and community leader, Bob Richardson.