Dr. David Curson – Director of Bird Conservation for Audubon in Maryland

Key Takeaway: Dr. Curson presented Marshes for Tomorrow, a restoration initiative focused on Maryland’s saltmarshes, aiming to restore 25,000 acres to combat the impacts of rising sea levels. With the support of Audubon Mid-Atlantic, this plan targets the preservation of key marsh areas to protect biodiversity, including the endangered Saltmarsh Sparrow, and offers long-term benefits for local communities, fisheries, and tourism. The project utilizes marsh restoration techniques such as runnels and sediment placement to mitigate the effects of climate change and coastal sinking.

 
Resource: Check out the latest updates on the Marshes for Tomorrow initiative! An article was recently published in the Maryland Yellowthroat, the newsletter of the Maryland Ornithological Society—read the November issue and visit the MOS website. The Audubon Mid-Atlantic Coastal Team and marshes work were also featured in MPT’s Maryland Outdoors season premiere. Watch the episode here: MPT Maryland Outdoors Episode. For more details, visit the Marshes for Tomorrow website

Randy Taylor – Mayor of Salisbury

Key Takeaway: The City of Salisbury has taken significant steps to improve environmental stewardship, focusing on litter reduction, PFAS contamination, and expanding green spaces. The launch of the Litter Committee and initiatives like the “Garbage Goons” have led to successful community cleanups, removing thousands of gallons of trash across parks and downtown areas. In addressing PFAS, the City is proactively meeting upcoming EPA water quality standards by investing in treatment systems, conducting regular testing, and pursuing legal action against PFAS manufacturers. Additionally, Salisbury is enhancing urban conservation by planting native species and trees in parks, promoting initiatives like urban meadows and the plastic bag ban, and working to acquire more green spaces to expand the park system and create connections to nature for residents.

 
Resource: For more information on the City of Salisbury's sustainability efforts, including the Green Team and various environmental initiatives, visit the Salisbury Sustainability Hub. Read the entire speech here.

Josh Hastings – Wicomico County Councilman and Executive Director of Forever Maryland

Key Takeaway: Josh emphasized the importance of confronting the true state of our environment at local, regional, and global levels. He acknowledged the significant challenges posed by unstable and unsustainable funding from government sources and diminishing support from foundations. Despite these obstacles, Josh highlighted the tangible progress being made through on-the-ground partnerships and innovative technology. He also underscored the need to work within existing systems, particularly through local government planning and engagement efforts such as comprehensive planning, design charrettes, and park master planning, to drive meaningful environmental change.

Resource: To learn more about the efforts of Forever Maryland, visit forevermaryland.org 

John Groutt Award for Environmental Stewardship: Josh Hastings

Josh Hastings was honored with the John Groutt Environmental Stewardship Award for his unwavering commitment to conserving Maryland’s natural resources and fostering sustainable communities. As Executive Director of Forever Maryland, Josh leads efforts to protect forests, farms, parks, and critical habitats across the state. His extensive background includes over a decade in land use policy with roles at the Lower Shore Land Trust and the Eastern Shore Land Conservancy, as well as serving as a Legislative Assistant in the Maryland Senate. Additionally, his dedication to public service as a Wicomico County Councilmember exemplifies his passion for advancing environmental stewardship and community well-being. 

Green Business Award: Andrew Passwaters, Blooming Meadow Nursery

Blooming Meadow Nursery received the Green Business Award for their exceptional commitment to promoting native plants and their vital role in the ecosystem. Established in 2022 in Dagsboro, the nursery stands out as one of the few in the region offering a wide selection of native species, combining ecological benefits with aesthetic appeal. Their knowledgeable team goes above and beyond to assist customers in selecting and caring for plants tailored to their needs. Blooming Meadow Nursery played a pivotal role in WET's Waterside Park outreach and restoration project in Salisbury, sourcing and delivering 125 large, high-quality native trees at fair prices. Their contributions have significantly advanced local restoration efforts, exemplifying green business excellence. 

Academic Watershed Stewardship Award: Jasmine Bowie

Jasmine received the Academic Watershed Stewardship Award for their dedication to advancing environmental research and community engagement. As a Biology and Environmental Studies double major and member of Salisbury University's Clarke Honors College, Jasmine is conducting critical research on PFAS contamination in the Wicomico, Nanticoke, and Pocomoke rivers, contributing to a deeper understanding of water and ecosystem health. Beyond academics, Jasmine demonstrates leadership through their roles on the executive boards of the LGBTQ Alliance and SU Organic Garden and their active involvement in the Green Team’s watershed health initiatives. Their efforts reflect a profound commitment to environmental stewardship and community well-being. 

Excellence in Youth Environmental Leadership: Julia Gore

Julia received the Excellence in Youth Environmental Leadership Award for her outstanding dedication to environmental advocacy and leadership. As a senior at Parkside High School, she has made significant contributions to sustainability through initiatives like leading a community restoration project for Maryland's 5 Million Tree Initiative, organizing a rain barrel project, and co-hosting an upcycling workshop. Julia's commitment extends to her roles as President of the Parkside Student Government and Student Representative to the Wicomico County Board of Education. A certified Professional Horticulturist with plans to major in Ecology, Julia exemplifies the impact of youth leadership in creating a sustainable future. 

Volunteer of the Year: David Scheid

David received the Volunteer of the Year Award for his exceptional contributions to environmental stewardship and education. With a distinguished career that includes serving as Vice President for Horticulture at the New York Botanical Garden and Executive Director of the U.S. Botanic Garden, David brings unparalleled expertise to his volunteer efforts. Since 2015, he has shared his knowledge by teaching Sustainable Design in Salisbury University’s Environmental Studies Department. His over 20 years of involvement with Master Gardener programs and dedicated support for WET’s park design and plant care projects have been instrumental in advancing local conservation and sustainability initiatives.