L to R: Patricia Morrison, USFWS Biologist; John Peukert, USACE Chief Planning & Environmental Branch; Conrad Weiser, USACE Environmental and Cultural Resources Section; Glenn Klingler, USFWS Refuge Manager - Photo Credit: USFWS

Georgetown Island erosion stabalization project, August 2014 - Photo Credit: USFWS

Ohio River Islands NWR is the proud recipient of an award from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers--Pittsburgh District.

The Award is the "Commander's Award for Public Service" for:

"For their initiative, outstanding effort and perseverance in pursuing the cooperative Georgetown Island erosion stabilization project. Their vision for exploring opportunities for preserving their refuge properties from erosive loss led to the precedent-setting cooperative efforts to provide a fully compliant disposal site which enabled the Pittsburgh District to make more effective use of annual navigation channel maintenance funds. The fulfillment of this project, which supports both Pittsburgh District and Refuge missions, has lasting environmental benefits for the Region and the Nation." The award was signed from Colonel Bernard R. Lindstrom, Corps of Engineers, Commanding.

This was a team effort between two federal agencies, which included refuge personnel, Pittsburgh District personnel, as well as folks at the Northeast Regional Office who reviewed the EA, MOU, and various permits. It is a good example of an effective partnership to accomplish mutually-beneficial goals.