The Nature Conservancy’s Steve Long awarded at Earth Night

BOSTON, Mass - Steve Long, director of government relations for The Nature Conservancy in Massachusetts, was given the “Green Star” award for Collaborative Unsung Hero at the Environmental League’s annual Earth Night gala.

The League selected Long to receive to the award for his “critical leadership on the Land Conservation Tax Incentives Act and protection of water resources.”

The Conservation Tax Incentives Act, which was signed into law by Governor Patrick last January, established a state income tax credit for landowners who donate conservation land to a municipality, the state or a nonprofit conservation organization.

ELM board member Bernie McHugh (left) presented the Green Star award to The Nature Conservancy’s Steve Long (right) at Earth Night on May 27th.

“Thanks to Steve’s hard work and leadership, we have an important new tool for preserving and protecting some of our most valuable natural resources across the Commonwealth,” said Wayne Klockner, state director for The Nature Conservancy in Massachusetts.

"I’m proud to receive this award,” said Long. “And I look forward to more policy successes for the environment with the Conservancy's amazing, dynamic and creative partners in the Administration, Legislature and fellow environmental organizations."

Other Green Star recipients at Earth Night were Representative Stephen Kulik for Legislator of the Year, Stop & Shop for Corporate Council Leadership, and Ralph Earle III for Outstanding Service to ELM.

The Nature Conservancy is a leading conservation organization working around the world to protect ecologically important lands and waters for nature and people. The Conservancy and its more than 1 million members have protected nearly 120 million acres worldwide. Visit The Nature Conservancy on the Web at www.nature.org.