The North Carolina Wildlife Federation has announced the winners of the 54th Annual Governor’s Conservation Achievement Awards and Garrett Wildflower Seed Farm was honored to be named Business Conservationist of the Year!
“Don Lee and his family have turned their family farm into a real-time laboratory and a growing business based on researching and cultivating native seeds. They are leaders in providing technical experience and seed sources for native grasslands and Southern prairie plantings.”
This year’s winners are exceedingly notable conservation devotees who work for wildlife from elk to amphibians to fish and marine resources. They are water quality advocates, land stewardship champions and leaders in the preservation of unique ecosystems. The award winners include agency professionals, elected officials, academia, non-profit leaders and organizations rising to the challenge.
The North Carolina Wildlife Federation first presented its conservation awards in 1958. “Each year we are amazed at the commitment and creativity of North Carolina citizens in protecting wildlife and wild places,” stated T. Edward Nickens, NCWF Awards Committee Chair. “Many of our award winners tell us their Governor’s Conservation Achievement Award represents the high point of their career—whether they are full-time scientists or full-time volunteer conservationists.”
These prestigious awards are the highest natural resource honors given in the state. By recognizing, publicizing, and honoring these conservation leaders—young and old, professional and volunteer—the North Carolina Wildlife Federation hopes to inspire all North Carolinians to take a more active role in protecting the natural resources of our state.