Nominations Sought for Environment Awards

Nominations are being sought for awards that recognize organizations and individuals who protect marine habitat in the Bay of Fundy and Gulf of Maine.

"These awards applaud the efforts of Nova Scotians and others who help protect our beautiful Bay of Fundy and Gulf of Maine and the life they support," said Environment and Labour Minister Kerry Morash. "I encourage nominations for these awards so that more Nova Scotians can be highlighted and we can all follow the excellent example they set."

The department's Bay of Fundy Awards recognize public involvement in environmental management, stewardship and education. There are two categories for these awards.

The Business Partnership Award is presented to an individual who has led or participated in a partnership that promotes responsible and sustainable use of the natural environment around the Bay of Fundy.

The Environmental Awareness Award recognizes efforts to increase public knowledge and understanding of environmental issues in the bay. Nominees may be involved in public awareness activities that benefit the marine environment or cause a positive change in public behaviour.

Two categories of awards are also presented by the Gulf of Maine Council on the Marine Environment.

The Longard Volunteer Award honours the memory of one of the council's seven founding members. Art Longard was a long-time employee of the Nova Scotia Department of Fisheries and Fisheries and Oceans Canada. He dedicated countless volunteer hours to the conservation of marine life in the Gulf of Maine.

"The conservation efforts of single individuals and larger groups make such significant impacts on our marine life and our coastal communities," said Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Chris d'Entremont. "These awards give us an opportunity to show our appreciation and say thank you."

The Gulf of Maine Visionary Awards recognize an individual's or organization's innovation, creativity and commitment to conservation of marine life in the gulf. Recipients are chosen from the five jurisdictions that border the gulf -- Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire.

The deadline for submitting nominations for Bay of Fundy and Gulf of Maine awards is Friday, Oct. 8. Nomination forms are available from and may be submitted in writing to: Patricia Hinch Nova Scotia Environment and Labour PO Box 697 Halifax, NS B3J 2T8 or by e-mail to: [email protected] .

The Bay of Fundy and Gulf of Maine awards are presented each year at the Gulf of Maine Council Visionary Award ceremony.