HARRINGTON, DE — Two Delaware students were celebrated for their environmental contributions during Governor’s Day at the Delaware State Fair. Governor John Carney and DNREC Secretary Shawn M. Garvin presented the Young Environmentalists of the Year Awards and honored top anglers from the 2024 Youth Fishing Tournament.
“I am amazed every year by the dedication, knowledge and energy these young environmental leaders bring to the table as they work towards a better future for Delaware, as well as our planet,” said DNREC Secretary Shawn M. Garvin.
The Young Environmentalists of the Year Awards recognize Delaware students who have made significant contributions to protecting and enhancing the state’s natural resources.
This year, the awards went to:
Charli Rose Evans, age 11, Laurel Elementary School
Charli has been practicing sustainable farming since kindergarten. She grows food for her family and runs Charli’s Chicks Farm Fresh Eggs. She recycles food scraps, composts waste, and uses eggshells as fertilizer. Charli also educates her peers and community about sustainable living.
Melisa Velasquez, age 17, Sussex Central High School
Melisa maintains a 3.94 GPA and has numerous environmental accolades. She has won awards in the Sussex Preservation Coalition Youth Environmental Film Contest and the Delaware Envirothon. Melisa fundraised for a pollinator garden and the Nanticoke River Watershed Conservancy. She also wrote an award-winning essay on climate action and environmental justice.
The awards program, in its 31st year, recognizes students who have initiated innovative projects, practiced environmental stewardship, or increased public awareness about environmental issues.
The Youth Fishing Tournament winners were also celebrated:
Brody Spencer, age 12, Dagsboro
Brody won statewide and Sussex County honors, catching 5.71 pounds of fish at Ingrams Pond. This was his second consecutive win.
Brice Wise, age 14, Bear
Brice took second place statewide, catching 3.31 pounds of fish at Lums Pond.
Thomas Sweeney-Jones, age 5, Smyrna
Thomas came in third statewide, catching 2.98 pounds of fish at Akridge Scout Reservation Pond.
The tournament, in its 38th year, is organized by the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife and promotes a catch-and-release approach to conservation.
The achievements of these young environmentalists highlight the importance of engaging youth in activities that foster a commitment to sustainability and conservation.
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