TDEC Seeks Environmental Achievers

Nominations Open for Governor’s 2014 Environmental Stewardship Awards

NASHVILLE – The Department of Environment and Conservation is inviting Tennesseans to submit nominations for the Governor’s 2014 Environmental Stewardship Awards. The awards recognize Tennesseans who go above and beyond to protect the state’s diverse environment.

“Our communities take important steps to conserve and protect natural resources, and we recognize those contributions to Tennessee’s economy and overall sustainability,” Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam said. “Each category, from environmental education and outreach to sustainable performance, is critical in protecting the air, land and water of our state.”

The Governor’s Environmental Stewardship Awards cover 10 categories: Building Green; Clean Air; Energy and Renewable Resources; Environmental Education and Outreach (business category); Environmental Education and Outreach (school category); Land Use; Materials Management; Natural Heritage; Sustainable Performance and Lifetime Achievement.

Any individual, business, organization, educational institution or agency is eligible, provided they are located in Tennessee and projects were completed during the 2013 calendar year. All nominees must have a minimum of three consecutive years in overall environmental compliance with the Department of Environment and Conservation. Self-nominations are encouraged.

“The environment significantly impacts our daily lives and Tennesseans continue to make great strides in protection and preservation,” Environment and Conservation Commissioner Bob Martineau said. “These annual awards recognize the hard work of the people and organizations striving to increase stewardship efforts across the state.”

A panel of judges representing agricultural, conservation, forestry, environmental and academic professionals will select award recipients based on criteria including on-the-ground achievement, innovation and public education. The deadline for nominations is March 31, 2014. Award recipients will be announced in May 2014.

For more information about each category, judging criteria and nomination forms, visit TDEC’s website at http://www.tn.gov/environment/gov-awards.shtml.

###