Wallkill River NWR's Friends President Marie Springer received an Environmental Quality Award from the EPA for her dedication to the environment and her efforts to the assist the refuge. The award ceremony was held in New York City and was attended by Marie, her family and refuge manager Edward Henry. Marie was cited for her hundreds of volunteer hours, serving as president as the Friends organization and for her key role in organizing the group. Representative Scott Garrett of New Jersey nominated Marie for the award. The award ceremony's keynote address was presented by Representative McHugh of New York.