May 15 Is Deadline for Gulf Guardian Nominations
The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Gulf of Mexico Program (GMP) partnership developed the Gulf Guardian Awards as a way to recognize and honor the businesses, community groups, individuals, and agencies that are taking positive steps to keep the Gulf healthy, beautiful, and productive. The Gulf Guardian Award exemplifies what the Gulf of Mexico Program is all about; innovative solutions that come about when people pool resources and look for creative ways to positively impact quality of life and economic well being.
The first Gulf Guardian Award winners were recognized in 2000. Every year since, a first-, second-, and third-place award are given in seven categories: Business, Civic/Non-Profit Organization, Partnerships, Youth/Education, Individual, Government, and Bi-National. All 21 winners in seven different categories receive a marble and glass memento, press coverage on their project, and recognition by their peers. All winners receive a professional video about their project and/or effort that is presented on the evening of the Gulf Guardian Awards ceremony.
The Gulf of Mexico Program began in 1988 to protect, restore, and maintain the health and productivity of the Gulf of Mexico ecosystem in economically sustainable ways. The Gulf of Mexico Program is underwritten by the Environmental Protection Agency and is a non-regulatory, inclusive consortium of state and federal government agencies and representatives of the business and agricultural community, fishing industry, scientists, environmentalists, and community leaders from all five Gulf states.
To complete a nomination application for 2009, go to the Gulf of Mexico Program’s Web site at http://www.epa.gov/gmpo and click on the Gulf Guardian Application button. Applications are available in both English and Spanish. Nominations are due May 15.