​LSRCA Gives Out Awards 

Annual Event Celebrates the Efforts of Environmental Guardians

NEWMARKET – October 15, 2015 – At its 34th annual Conservation Awards ceremony held on the evening of Thursday, October 15, 2015, Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA) honoured 20 individuals, businesses and groups who are working selflessly to better our environment.

During his introductory remarks, Aurora Mayor and LSRCA Board Chair Geoffrey Dawe expressed his deep admiration and appreciation, remarking on the efforts of the recipients. "They are the true agents of change and an inspiration to each and every one of us," said Dawe.

Emceed by last year's Media Award winners, Jennifer Anderson and Joe Connors of Rogers TV's Georgina Life, the gala evening took place at Madsen's Greenhouse and Garden in Newmarket. Jen and Joe shared with the audience stories of leadership, passion and commitment, while the winners took to the stage to receive their awards.

Conservation Award recipients are people engaged in positive environmental actions that contribute to a more sustainable and healthier watershed. They do it for no other reason than they care about the world they live in. They are champions in the true sense of the word.

Congratulations went out to this year's recipients as follows:

George R. Richardson Conservation Award of Honour:
Grandmother Josephine Mandamin, Watershed and beyond

Conservation Award of Merit:
Ontario Water Centre, Watershed wide

Ernie Crossland Young Conservationist Award:
Melissa Cusack-Striepe, Newmarket

Pioneering Green Communities Award (4):
Brent Kopperson, Newmarket
Murray Ogilvie & Joanne Brown, Newmarket
TD Friends of the Environment Foundation, Aurora, Brock
De La Salle Rain Garden Partners, Georgina

Water Conservation Award:
Township of Ramara

Soil Conservation Award (9):
Maple Leaf Public School, Newmarket
Sir William Osler Public School, Bradford West Gwillimbury
Bradford Lions Club
Martin and Maria Bonigut, Newmarket
Rick Horlings, King Township
Jeanette Phoenix, East Gwillimbury
Holland Marsh Drainage System Joint Municipal Services Board, Bradford West Gwillimbury
Larry and Donna Barton, Township of Ramara
Paul and Gail Barton, Uxbridge

Education Award:
Smart About Salt Council, Watershed wide

Volunteer Recognition Award:
Bio Blitz Team of Volunteers, Watershed and beyond

Media Recognition Award:
Regional Municipality of York, York Region