SENATOR MARK WALCZYK PRESENTS SAVE THE RIVER WITH EMPIRE AWARD

On Saturday, January 28th, State Senator Mark Walczyk presented the “Save The River” organization with an Empire Award for their vast contributions they make to the 49th senate district and the entire state. The award was presented by the Senator to Executive Director John Peach during the 34th annual Winter Environmental Conference at the 1,000 Islands Harbor Hotel.

Save The River has been the one of the leading grassroots advocacy organizations working to project the St. Lawrence River since 1978. In 2004 they became a member of the Waterkeeper Alliance as the Upper St. Lawrence Riverkeeper. Recognizing the River’s unique place as part of the largest freshwater systems on Earth, Save the River takes an active role in partners with local, regional, national, and international organizations to protect the health of the St. Lawrence for generations to come.

“Save the River plays a vital role in protecting the sanctity and purity of the mighty St. Lawrence River. They recognize that the river is an incredible asset to our region and work tirelessly to ensure it will be enjoyed for generations to come. It was an absolute no-brainer to bestow Save The River with an Empire Award for their outstanding work in advocating for the health and integrity of a major natural resource in our region,” said Senator Walczyk

Executive Director John Peach adds: “ Save The River Upper St. Lawrence Riverkeeper is honored to be the recipient of the Empire Award. Working with Senator Walczyk on issues such as Replace Single Use Plastics is very beneficial to the health of the River. Also, Senator Walczyk's opposition to Customs and Border Protection's application to build their new facility in Blind Bay, a significant and historic spawning grounds for muskellunge, has helped build support for the proposal to build the new facility on a less environmentally sensitive site. It is important to have the backing of politicians for Save The River's mission to restore, preserve and protect the Upper St. Lawrence River now and for generations to come through advocacy, education research and stewardship.