Charles Strauss did not see the forest for the trees but instead as a challenge to educate the people of Western Maryland. Mr. Strauss was instrumental in the creation of Garrett County's Outdoor Education program, initiating a comprehensive conservation education program themed "Conservation: An Urgent Need" and using area woodlands as an outdoor laboratory for county students.

A hobbyist honeybee keeper, Mr. Strauss also developed an apiary to teach students about the trade as well as raise money for additional educational projects, such as creating nature trails and building an outdoor amphitheater. In 1971, the program evolved into what is now known as the Hickory Environmental Education Center.

As Hickory's first director, Mr. Strauss supervised day and resident programs for Kindergarten through 12th grade students. He oversaw construction of a swimming pool, sought funding for a dormitory and coordinated volunteer efforts to build a kitchen. He even drove the center's school bus when needed. In addition to his duties at Hickory, Mr. Strauss also directed a statewide High School Conservation Workshop for eight years, even after retiring from the Garrett County Public School System with 34 years of service.

Mr. Strauss was recognized with the 1993 Richard A. Johnson Environmental Education Award for his legacy of environmental education in Garrett County.