Wetlands have been disappearing at a rate of 61 football fields per day due to development.[1] This does not even factor in the coastal wetlands or salt marshes at risk due to climate change and sea level rise. Wetlands are crucial natural resources that provide numerous benefits: they filter pollutants from the waters where we drink, swim, and fish; they protect coastal communities from flooding and storm surges; and they provide habitat for migratory birds, fisheries, and many other types of wildlife. Without the hard work of wetland champions across the country, the threat to our nation’s wetlands would be even greater.
The 2015 NWAs will honor individual wetland achievement in six categories: Conservation and Restoration; Education and Outreach; Landowner Stewardship; Science Research; State, Tribal, and Local Program Development; and Wetland Community Leader. Organizations and federal employees are not eligible. The ceremony will take place at the U.S. Botanic Garden on May 21, 2015. The deadline for submitting nominations is December 1, 2014.
In the past 25 years, the NWA program has honored more than 150 wetland champions. The program recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional effort, innovation, and excellence in wetlands conservation at the regional, state, or local level. Past award winners share a dedication to protecting the nation’s remaining wetlands; educating communities about the value of wetlands; and working with a diverse array of organizations and interests to advance wetlands protection.
Learn more about the diverse achievements of prior award winners.
The NWA program is administered by the Environmental Law Institute and supported by the U.S. EPA, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service, Natural Resources Conservation Service, NOAA Fisheries, and the Federal Highway Administration. A committee of wetland experts representing federal and state agencies, academia, conservation groups, and private sector organizations will select the award winners for 2015.
Detailed information about the 2015 NWA nomination process can be found on the NWA website: www.nationalwetlandsawards.org. For more information on the program contact Narayan Subramanian at (202)939-3860 or e-mail wetlandsawards@eli.org.
[1] NOAA analysis reveals significant land cover changes in U.S. coastal regions, NOAA (Aug. 18, 2014), http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2014/20140818_landcover.html.