If you know a person, organization, or business that has helped to enhance the environment of western Pennsylvania, that achievement could win a $5,000 Western Pennsylvania Environmental Award.

Nominations must be submitted by March 16.

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council and Dominion, sponsors of the awards program, have announced that they are now accepting nominations for the 2007 Environmental Awards, to be presented at the Westin Convention Center Hotel on June 7.

Community groups, schools, businesses, volunteers, government officials, and other organizations, individuals, or programs are eligible to receive a Western Pennsylvania Environmental Award for their efforts to enhance the environment of western Pennsylvania. A total of 4 awards will be presented in the areas of Community (which includes a variety of eligible projects), Higher Education, Primary/Secondary Education and Business.

An independent panel of judges will evaluate all nominations. In honor of each awardee, the sponsors will make a $5,000 donation to a nonprofit organization of the awardee's choice that provides environmental benefits to western Pennsylvania.

The Western Pennsylvania Environmental Awards were established to encourage the community to adopt the standards set by successful nominees, thereby promoting innovative environmental efforts and enhancing the quality of life in western Pennsylvania. Through public recognition and award donations, the program also helps to advance those projects which achieve specific environmental objectives, and which reflect a genuine understanding of local needs.

Major funding for the awards comes from the Dominion Foundation, which is dedicated to the economic, physical and social health of the communities served by Dominion companies.

Nomination forms and guidelines are available online at or by calling Davitt Woodwell at the Pennsylvania Environmental Council at 412-481-9400 or Denise Hughes at Dominion 412-497-5561

Links: 2006 Western PA Environmental Award Winners

2005 Western PA Environmental Award Winners

2/2/2007