LINDA FEIX RECEIVES ENVIRONMENTAL HERO AWARD

Linda Feix, a volunteer at the Old Woman Creek National Estuarine Research Reserve, has been recognized by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration as an Environmental Hero for her long-standing commitment to promote research, education and stewardship of estuaries.

Recently retired from Old Woman Creek NERR, Feix began her career with Old Woman Creek in 1981 after bringing her Girl Scout Troop to the reserve for a field trip. After one year as a full time volunteer, she was hired as the reserve's first education coordinator. She coordinated educational efforts that reached audiences far beyond the Old Woman Creek estuary and its watershed.

Feix coordinated the NERR Coastal Decision Maker Workshop Series, which provided science-based training for Ohio Lake Erie watershed natural resource managers, and public officials on topics such as agricultural management practices, nature based tourism and sustainable development. She was actively involved in the design of Old Woman Creek's public use facilities, including visitor center displays and administrative facilities.

Established in 1996, the Environmental Hero Award is presented to individuals and organizations that volunteer their time and energy to help NOAA carry out its mission.

“NOAA and the nation are fortunate to have such dedicated people volunteer so much of their time,” said retired Navy Vice Admiral Conrad C. Lautenbacher, Jr., Ph.D., under secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator. “They set a perfect example for others to follow in their communities. America can benefit from more environmental heroes like Linda.”

NOAA, an agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce, is dedicated to enhancing economic security and national safety through the prediction and research of weather and climate-related events and providing environmental stewardship of our nation’s coastal and marine resources.

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