Ducks Unlimited is looking to recognize a local individual or group for their wetland conservation work.
The Oceanside chapter of DU has recognized “outstanding leadership, dedication, commitment and achievement by individuals or organizations to the conservation of wetlands and habitat,” for years, said co-chair John Hiebert.
Like last year they are opening the nomination process for their Community Wetlands Conservation Award to the public.
“Past recipients include Mr. Peter Redford for his work at the Marion Baker Fish Hatchery and (2014) award-winner, Ms. Faye Smith for her service with Streamkeepers, the Mid-Vancouver Island Habitat Enhancement Society and many other groups working to conserve wetlands,” he said.
Last year, the award went to Arrowsmith Naturalists represented by Dr. Lynne Brookes and Roger Simms.
The award recognizes outstanding leadership, dedication, commitment and achievement to the conservation of wetlands and habitat.
Ducks Unlimited has been active in the area since 1984 and has more than 110,000 supporters across the country. A registered charity, they work with government, industry, landowners and other non-profits to conserve wetland for waterfowl, wildlife and the environment.
They have completed almost 10,000 habitat projects and conserved 6.4 million acres, including more than a dozen in the Parksville Qualicum Beach region, six in the Englishman River estuary alone.
Nominations close Oct. 26. The recipient will be recognized at their Nov. 5 annual fundraising gala at the Qualicum Beach Civic Centre with a reception starting at 5:30 p.m. followed by a meal, wine, live and silent auctions, and exciting raffle packages. Tickets are on sale for $75 each.
Winners of the local award are also entered in the Premiers Conservation Award competition in the spring.
UPDATED: For tickets, nomination forms and more information contact Hiebert at jhiebert@feathercatch.com or 250-752-6632, or co-chair Corey Myer at 250-752-8191 or mycorailconsulting@gmail.com. Look them up on Facebook for more information.
