BALTIMORE, MD (February 12, 2009) – Nominations are now being accepted for the 2009 Tawes Award for A Clean Environment – named in honor of the late J. Millard Tawes, Maryland Governor (1959-1967) and first secretary of the Department of Natural Resources. The awards are co-sponsored by the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) and the Maryland Petroleum Council.

“The award nominees are on the front lines of making a positive change in Maryland’s environment,” said MDE Secretary Shari T. Wilson. “They’ve rolled up their sleeves and set an example for all of us who want to see real, lasting accomplishments that benefit their communities and all Marylanders.”

The annual statewide environmental recognition program seeks to involve youth, adults, private and public organizations in the restoration and protection of Maryland's many natural resources and attractions. Potential nominees may include an individual, civic, community, or non-profit organization who has demonstrated outstanding efforts to enhance Maryland's environment over a period of time or with a single project.

For more information contact the Maryland Petroleum Council office at (410) 269-1850 or MDE's Office of Communications at (410) 537-3003. E-mail requests may be sent to: maryland@api.org. Deadline for submissions is April 17, 2009.

Download Award Announcement and Nomination Form (.pdf) (.doc)

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