To help celebrate the International Year of Forests, the U.S. Forest Service and partners launched an annual contest to recognize forest champions throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Forests provide clean water and air, wildlife habitat, recreational opportunities, and a host of other benefits to people. With around 100 acres of the region's forest lost to development each day, the need for local champions of trees and forests has never been greater!
The purpose of this contest is to recognize the outstanding efforts of groups and individuals to conserve, restore, manage and celebrate Chesapeake forests. The contest was open to all, including community groups, nonprofits, schools, youth organizations, natural resource professionals, private citizens, businesses, etc. Winners were recognized and received free registration and accommodations at this year’s Chesapeake Watershed Forum, which was held September 29th – October 2nd, 2011 in Shepherdstown, WV.
For more information on the contest and 2011's winners, please visit Alliance for the Bay.
