The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™

The Nature Conservancy’s Wisconsin chapter announced today that it will present Congressman Dave Obey with its inaugural Gaylord Nelson Congressional Leadership Award, an award that recognizes exemplary conservation leadership in Washington.

 “We would like to honor and thank Congressman Obey for his outstanding leadership on conservation issues facing Wisconsin,” said Steve Bablitch, chairman of The Nature Conservancy in Wisconsin Board of Trustees. “From the Land and Water Conservation Fund, to securing Forest Legacy dollars for northern Wisconsin, his efforts have had a profound impact on conservation in Wisconsin.”

Former Wisconsin Governor and U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson became an icon of conservation through efforts such as the creation of Earth Day, the Wilderness Act, the National Trails Act and the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Fund. The Gaylord Nelson Congressional Leadership Award recognizes public servants who have exhibited strong leadership in their commitment to protecting our land and water for future generations. 

“It is only fitting that the first recipient of the Gaylord Nelson Congressional Leadership Award represents Clear Lake, Wisconsin, Nelson’s childhood home,” said Bablitch. “Following in Nelson’s footsteps, Dave Obey has been a cornerstone to conservation efforts across the United States.”

Tia Nelson, daughter of Gaylord Nelson and well-know conservationist in her own right, was pleased that The Nature Conservancy’s first Gaylord Nelson Congressional Leadership Award was given to Obey: “I am delighted that Congressman Obey is the first to receive this award in Papa’s name,” Nelson said. “Dave Obey is a true conservationist and it is well-deserved.”