The Watershed Institute hosted its annual meeting of Supporters and Friends at its LEED-Platinum certified Watershed Center, located on its 950-acre nature reserve, in Pennington on April 28.
Guests gathered to celebrate the many ways the community engages with and advances its mission in Conservation, Advocacy, Science, and Education, according to a press release through The Watershed Institute.
“For more than 75 years, The Watershed Institute has worked to protect and restore clean water and healthy ecosystems across central New Jersey,” said Executive Director Jim Waltman. “Our Annual Meeting is a wonderful opportunity to recognize and thank the staff, volunteers, partners, friends and supporters whose passion and dedication drive our shared success.”
This year, The Watershed Institute honored two remarkable leaders whose contributions have strengthened its work and inspired others:
- State Sen. Bob Smith, chairman of the Environmental Committee, received the Edmund W. Stiles Award for Environmental Leadership.
- Gabrielle Flora, a science educator at the Trenton Ninth Grade Academy, received the Richard Rotter Award for Excellence in Environmental Education.
In addition, The Watershed Institute celebrated a significant milestone: the 20th anniversary of Jim Waltman’s leadership. Since taking the helm two decades ago, Waltman has expanded the organization’s reach and impact, led a transformative rebranding, and spearheaded the creation of the award-winning Watershed Center—a regional hub for innovation and sustainability. His vision has established The Watershed Institute as a statewide leader in environmental conservation and education, and his ongoing dedication continues to shape a healthier, more sustainable future for New Jersey.
Founded in 1949, The Watershed Institute is committed to protecting and restoring water and the environment through a comprehensive program of conservation, advocacy, science, and education.
To learn more visit www.thewatershed.org or call (609) 737-3735.
