Carl M. Freeman Companies accepts the 2025 Conservation Stewardship Award for Developer on Tuesday, March 12, 2025, for their work at Americana Bayside. Pictured, from left, Smith Purdum, senior land development manager, Rich Rishel, director of construction and land development, Lisa Meck, community development director, Christi Davis, lifestyle manager, and Erika Cook, director of marketing.
The Sussex Conservation District (SCD) celebrated the recipients of the 2025 Conservation Stewardship Awards (CSA), honoring individuals, businesses, and organizations in Sussex County that have made exceptional efforts in preserving and enhancing the area’s natural resources.
It’s the fourth year the district has held these awards.
The awards ceremony was a testament to the continued growth of the event, with SCD’s sediment and stormwater program manager, Jessica Watson, highlighting the commitment and innovation displayed by this year’s honorees.
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“The commitment and innovation demonstrated by this year’s winners are truly inspiring,” she said. “They don’t just meet sediment and stormwater regulations—they exceed them, ensuring a lasting positive impact on our environment.”
A panel of judges from SCD, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), the Delaware Department of Agriculture (DDA), and the Delaware Center for the Inland Bays reviewed 17 entries before selecting the winners.
The 2025 Conservation Stewardship Award winners
Recognized for their proactive efforts in identifying compliance issues and implementing sustainable solutions that protect water quality and natural habitats.
Honored for their long-standing dedication to responsible land development, surpassing stormwater regulations, and enhancing community green spaces.
A standout for their innovative approach in transforming a decommissioned drain field into a thriving ecosystem that benefits both local wildlife and the community.
Recognized for their consistent excellence in erosion control, pollution prevention, and sustainable construction practices in high-volume homebuilding.
Celebrated for their community engagement and commitment to conservation, showing how HOAs can lead meaningful environmental initiatives.
Honored for her leadership in managing sustainable site development and ensuring compliance with conservation standards.
Awarded for their dedication to sediment and stormwater management, exceeding regulatory standards and maintaining strong industry partnerships.
To highlight their contributions, SCD produced videos that showcase each winner’s impact on conservation in the region. These videos can be viewed here.
“Every winner today is making a tangible difference in Sussex County,” said David Baird, SCD’s district coordinator. “Their efforts ensure that our natural resources are protected for future generations, and we hope their success stories inspire even more conservation efforts.”
Raised in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, Jarek earned a B.A. in journalism and a B.A. in political science from Temple University in 2021. After running CNN’s Michael Smerconish’s YouTube channel, Jarek became a reporter for the Bucks County Herald before joining Delaware LIVE News.
Jarek can be reached by email at [email protected] or by phone at (215) 450-9982. Follow him on Twitter @jarekrutz and on LinkedIn.
Source: delawarelive.com…
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