Nova Scotians Receive Environment Awards
A researcher with a passion for coastal protection and a high school environment club devoted to Piping Plovers and green space have been recognized for their commitment to marine protection.
Tim Webster, a research scientist with the Applied Geomatics Research Group at Nova Scotia Community College in Middleton, and Barrington Municipal High School's Environment Club each received a 2011 Visionary Award from the Gulf of Maine Council on Marine Environment.
"Both award recipients have demonstrated dedication to the environment, and to marine protection in particular," said Environment Minister Sterling Belliveau, who represents the province on the Gulf of Maine Council.
"Their communities, and the province as a whole, are benefitting from their leadership and commitment."
Mr. Webster was recognized for his long-term leadership in developing and applying remote sensing technologies. Mr. Webster's work has led to a better understanding of the Bay of Fundy's changing coastlines and watersheds and the implications of climate change on coastal environments and communities.
Barrington Municipal High School's Environment Club was recognized for its efforts to maintain and enhance the quality of watersheds and coastal environments. Club members have engaged students, staff and local residents in protecting and restoring sensitive coastal habitats and have helped to promote environmental stewardship.
"The Environment Club is overwhelmed to have received the Gulf of Maine Council Visionary Award," said Helen Goreham, the club's staff advisor. "Our students are being empowered to be ambassadors for the environment at the local community level as well as globally."
Two Gulf of Maine Visionary Awards are given annually in each of five jurisdictions: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Maine, New Hampshire and Massachusetts.
The awards recognize innovation, creativity and commitment to marine protection by businesses, environmental organizations, or individuals who are making a difference to the health of the Gulf of Maine.
The council works to maintain and enhance environmental quality in the gulf and to allow for sustainable resource use by existing and future generations within its five jurisdictions.
The departments of Environment and Fisheries and Aquaculture are member agencies, which include representatives from federal and provincial governments, non-government organizations and the private sector.