The Baltimore Washington Corridor Chamber (BWCC) Foundation’s 2012 Award of Excellence was presented to a collection of agencies focused on wildlife and wildlife research.
Commonly referred to simply as Patuxent, the group of recipients include the U.S. Geological Service’s Patuxent Wildlife Research Center and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Patuxent Research Refuge, along with the National Wildlife Visitor Center and the Friends of Patuxent who do much to support all that takes place at these agencies.
Accepting the award on behalf of Patuxent were Dr. Greg Smith, director of the Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, and Nancy Morrissey, deputy refuge manager.
The BWCC Foundation Award recognized Patuxent’s 75 years of outstanding service to all Americans as the nation’s first research refuge.
Its scientists have been responsible for many important advances in natural resource conservation, especially in such areas as migratory birds, wildlife population analysis, waterfowl harvest, habitat management, wetlands, coastal zone and flood plain management, contaminants, endangered species, urban wildlife, ecosystem management and management of our national parks and national wildlife refuges.
Patuxent provides nearly 13,000 acres of green space for more than 200,000 visitors annually to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife observation, photography, fishing and hunting. The refuge is also home to the National Wildlife Visitor Center, one of the largest science and environmental education centers in the Department of the Interior.
Patuxent has educated and impacted thousands of students and families, imparting to young and old alike an increased knowledge of and appreciation for the earth’s vital resources.
The foundation also acknowledged the tireless efforts of the Friends of Patuxent in supporting the missions of both the research center and refuge.
In the past the Award of Excellence has recognized the following: National Security Agency, BGE, Verizon, Laurel Regional Hospital, First Generation College Bound, Capitol College, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Anne Arundel Community College, University of Maryland, University of Maryland University College, Laurel College Center, Melwood Training Center, the National Agricultural Library, Howard Community College and Bowie State University, among others.
