ERIN – On June 15, Credit Valley Conservation (CVC) hosted its “Friends of the Credit” event.
Sohail and Birha Farooqi received the Landowner Stewardship Award for transforming their 7.3-hectare property in Erin by planting 1,250 trees.
Doing this filled a gap in the forest canopy and is going to help increase habitats for local wildlife, CVC officials say.
The Conservation Awards program first began in 1986, and the awards are presented by CVC’s Board of Directors to honour those who demonstrate the organization’s core values of leadership, collaboration, innovation and integrity through environmental practices.
Since the program began, CVC has recognized about 387 community leaders for work that connects people to nature, knowledge to action and inspires a deep appreciation for the local environment.
This year, CVC issued 20 awards in eight categories to those who demonstrate a passion for environmental work and are inspired to take action.
The awards program recognizes projects and initiatives that help protect, connect and sustain the Credit River Watershed.
The Farooqi family earned the award for their strong stewardship ethic and for completing the project in a two-year timeframe.
Officials say their actions contribute to the health of the environment and increase natural features in the watershed.
The Farooqi’s also completed a forest management plan to protect their woodland for the next 10 years.
The Farooqi family declined a request to be interviewed by the Advertiser.
