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Department of Ecology News Release - Sept. 27, 2000
00-191
OLYMPIA - Tom Fitzsimmons, director of the Washington Department of Ecology (Ecology), today awarded Charlie Kessler of the Stevens County Conservation District with the agency's highest honor, an Environmental Excellence Award.
Fitzsimmons presented the award at a water-quality conference in Everett. The conference, entitled, "Taking Action: Nonpoint Water Pollution," is sponsored by Ecology.
Fitzsimmons said Kessler combines a positive attitude and creative approach to tackling some of Northeast Washington's toughest environmental problems.
"It's truly amazing what Charlie has done to improve water quality and involve citizens in the Colville area," said Fitzsimmons. "In my job I'm fortunate to meet many people dedicated to solving tough environmental issues. It's an honor to recognize Charlie for going the extra mile to get and keep our waters clean."
Ecology honored Kessler for his visionary work in watershed planning. Kessler's dedication has brought communities together in Northeast Washington.
"Vision, patience and strong determination are just a few of the words that describe Charlie and the work he's doing to serve the Colville area and improve and protect streams, lakes and ground water for people, fish and wildlife," said Fitzsimmons.
As a result, the Colville area has one of the most comprehensive and effective water quality efforts in Washington.
The Environmental Excellence Award honors organizations and individuals who take extraordinary action to make Washington's environment better.
Ecology's conference continues through Thursday, Sept. 28, at Howard Johnson Plaza-Hotel and Convention Center, 3105 Pine St., Everett. About 250 scientists, citizens and others are exchanging information on how to address nonpoint-source pollution, which is the top water-quality problem facing Washington state and the entire nation. The pollution is called "nonpoint-source" because it comes from many, diffuse sources.
CONTACT: Mary Getchell, Public Information Manager, (360) 407-6157; pager, (360) 534-8590
For more information on nonpoint source pollution: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/nonpoint/
Copyright © Washington State Department of Ecology. See http://www.ecy.wa.gov/copyright.html.
