Midcoast Conservancy is delighted to announce the recipients of this year’s Volunteer Awards, to be presented at its annual meeting and volunteer appreciation, Dec. 8 at Wavus Camp. Each award represents one of the organization’s pillars, as identified by Midcoast Conservancy’s board, councils and staff); the people chosen by the staff exemplify each pillar through their time, energy, commitment and dedication.

The Land Award will be given to Tom Eichler, for his care of a multitude of Midcoast Conservancy’s easements for many years. The Water Award will be given, posthumously, to Bob Lord. Bob died unexpectedly Sept. 1; just this past August, he was out on Damariscotta Lake doing his annual water quality monitoring work, as he had for nearly 20 years. The outpouring of remembrances and donations in his honor has been a testament to his love of Damariscotta Lake and Midcoast Maine.

The Communities Award goes to Keri Lupien, for her unflagging energy and enthusiasm while coordinating the Race Through the Woods and the Spring Trail Running series at Hidden Valley Nature Center. The Healthy Organization recipient is John Twomey, whose thoughtful insights, and commitment to caring for the unity of Midcoast Conservancy, have been unparalleled. In addition, John donates a significant portion of the sales of his book, “Retiring To, Not From” to the organization.

It is Midcoast Conservancy’s honor to have such an inspiring membership, and a wealth of deeply engaged volunteers. The Volunteer Appreciation event gives the organization an opportunity to say a big, public thank you to a few of this year’s Midcoast Conservancy champions. For more information about Midcoast Conservancy, go to www.midcoastconservancy.org or call (207) 389-5150.