The evening was capped by awards given to outstanding volunteers and activists. The 2007 award winners are:

Innovation in Conservation Award        Natural Systems Design

The Seattle-based habitat restoration firm designed and built the Friends’ successful West Milton Nature Preserve project, assessed stream problems, designed the upcoming East Hylebos Project and is developing a forest health management plan for the West Hylebos. Friends’ Executive Director Chris Carrel says that “by combining incisive, cutting-edge science with a nonprofit-friendly, results-oriented philosophy, Natural Systems Design has become one of our most important assets in restoring Hylebos Creek and the West Hylebos Wetlands.”

The Francis and Ilene Marckx Stewardship Award        REI, Inc.

REI has an active employee volunteer program, encouraging employees to volunteer in local community-building efforts. This year, REI employees chose the Hylebos as a place of emphasis, participating in 4 volunteer events at the Spring Valley Ranch and the West Hylebos Wetlands Park. REI volunteers planted 1,500 native trees and shrubs and removed invasive Himalayan blackberry from the West Hylebos Wetlands. Altogether, 136 REI employees contributed 793 volunteer hours of volunteer work. The company also donated a $5,000 grant towards West Hylebos Wetlands conservation. 

The Golden Hip Boot Award                     Debby Hyde

Federal Way resident Debby Hyde has profoundly affected the Hylebos through her role as Special Project Coordinator for Pierce County, where she has worked on Endangered Species Act issues and helped strengthen the county’s critical areas ordinance. She played a key role in the development of an action plan for the Hylebos through the Hylebos Watershed Action Committee. As a volunteer, she developed the Friends’ auction at the Ruby Dance.

Congratulations, award winners! And thanks for your passion and your commitment to conserving the Hylebos.