Annual Recognition Awards Criteria
A least bittern (Ixobrychus exilis) family was spotted at General Motors of Canada's McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve (2003 Rookie of the Year) in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. Photo by Jim Richards. |
Nominees and winners are chosen based on the following criteria:Improvements to Habitat
Habitat enhancement measures are designed to improve or protect biodiversity. The management plan demonstrates an understanding of habitat needs of target species and the interrelationship of habitat components that provide the animals' necessary living requirements.
Scope of Projects
Magnitude of the program - the diversity of habitat or species involved in the management program relative to the size of the site. The plan should also address issues beyond habitat enhancement such as environmental education, which includes developing environmental awareness among employees and the community.
Level of Commitment
Demonstrated by the contribution of time, effort and resources relative to the size of the site, involved in implementing or maintaining and documenting the management program.
Outside Group Involvement
The enhancement program should be accessible to the local community conservation organizations, or state and federal agencies. This can occur through actively involving outside groups in on-site projects, seeking expert technical advice, and/or conducting public tours. (It does not includehiring outside consultant to design program. It does include using state heritage programs, wildlife personnel, etc.)
A bumblebee searches for nectar from a purple coneflower at the Ford Motor Company's Ford Research & Engineering Center (2000 Rookie of the Year) in Dearborn, Michigan. Photo courtesy of Dan Ballnik. |
Length of Involvement ('Corporate Habitat of the Year' only)
Determined by how long the program has been maintained with or before involvement with the Council, and/or how long it will take to implement and achieve the program's stated goal.Employee Involvement
Percentage of employees participating in the program and at what levels within the company (i.e., hourly, assembly line and managerial).
Credibility
Program is credible (i.e., will stand up to scrutiny by members of the environmental profession) and provides a model for other companies.
Directory of WHC Awards
