The Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve was recognized recently by the Gulf of Maine Council on the Marine Environment, which presented the Wells Reserve with its 2009 Visionary Award. The Council praised the Wells Reserve “for sustained excellence in science, communication, partnerships, education, and stewardship of the Gulf of Maine ecosystems.”

“The Wells Reserve is honored to receive a Gulf of Maine Council Visionary Award,” said Reserve Director Paul Dest, who accepted the award on behalf of the organization. “It recognizes the great work and many accomplishments of our staff in the areas of science, education, and conservation. And it intensifies our commitment to protecting and restoring ecosystems around the Gulf of Maine.”

The Gulf of Maine Council cited the Wells Reserve for fostering “an environment of coastal understanding and awareness through numerous programs that have been effective in training many stakeholders in the region, and enlightening marine professionals about the scientific dynamics of estuarine and coastal ecosystems.”

The Gulf of Maine Council on the Marine Environment was established in 1989 by the governments of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts to foster cooperative actions within the Gulf watershed. Its mission is to maintain and enhance environmental quality in the Gulf of Maine to allow for sustainable resource use by existing and future generations.

Each year, the Gulf of Maine Council gives Visionary Awards to two individuals, businesses, or organizations within each state and province bordering the Gulf. The awards recognize innovation, creativity, and commitment to protecting the marine environment.

The Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve expands knowledge about coasts and estuaries, engages people in environmental learning, and involves communities in conserving natural resources. The Wells Reserve is headquartered at historic Laudholm Farm. Its work is supported by Laudholm Trust, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. FMI www.wellsreserve.org

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Resources

Printable News Release

Presentation of Award: Leyden, Dest, Joyner

2009 Visionary Award to Wells Reserve