The state of South Carolina is seeking nominations for an award to recognize individuals who are doing extraordinary work for the natural environment. Nominations will be accepted through Dec. 31, 2010.
      The S.C. General Assembly established the S.C. Environmental Awareness Award, now in its 18th year, during the 1992 legislative session to recognize outstanding contributions made toward the protection, conservation and improvement of South Carolina’s natural resources.
      Each year the public is invited to submit nominations that are then reviewed by an awards committee, which includes representatives from the state’s natural resource agencies.  In judging nominees, the committee considers excellence in innovation, leadership and accomplishments that influence positive changes affecting the natural environment.
      Members of the awards committee represent the S.C. Sea Grant Consortium, S.C. Forestry Commission, S.C. Department of Natural Resources and S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control.
      Dr. Fred Holland of Charleston, former director of the Hollings Marine Laboratory, won the 2009 S.C. Environmental Awareness Award. Dr. Holland was recognized for his exceptional contributions to ecological research and his lifelong dedication to the state’s coastal environment. A list of previous award winners, nomination guidelines and nomination form are available at www.scseagrant.org/Content/?cid=8 or by calling Susan Ferris Hill at (843) 953-2092.