NWP Apprentice Ecologist Awards: 2008

All of the national and international Nicodemus Wilderness Project (NWP) youth volunteers who conducted an environmental cleanup or conservation project this year as part of the Apprentice Ecologist Initiative™ can be found by visiting our Global Registry of Apprentice Ecologists. These youth volunteers (including at-risk and disadvantaged individuals) have helped rebuild the environmental and social well-being of our communities. Their work has improved local living conditions for both citizens and wildlife through education, activism, and action. We thank every youth volunteer that participated this year; they have made the world a better place!!! View past Apprentice Ecologist Award Winners (2005, 2006, 2007).

The Nicodemus Wilderness Project staff has voted for the top 10 Apprentice Ecologist projects of 2008 conducted in the United States and internationally. We received 160 project essays in 2008. Winning authors embodied the spirit of the Apprentice Ecologist Initiative™ by demonstrating personal leadership, initiative, and environmental stewardship in their projects. The award for each author (project leader) of a selected project included a Nicodemus Wilderness Project 100% certified organic cotton tote bag, individual recognition on this web page, and group recognition in a special edition of our eNewsletter. The author of the top project essay received a $500 scholarship award from the Nicodemus Wilderness Project. The winning author also received a personalized crystal award courtesy of Crown Awards & Trophies. The following award-winning authors appear in chronological order of project essay completion date during 2008.

Park Creek Elementary, Dalton, Georgia, USA NWP award-winning essay authored by Hannah.

Pine Barrens, Hammonton, New Jersey, USA NWP award-winning essay authored by Zack.

Lalima Village, Miranda, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil NWP award-winning essay authored by Gustavo. Winner of 2008 Scholarship Award ($500).

Eureka Canal, Mesa, Arizona, USA NWP award-winning essay authored by Trevor.

Haramaya University backyard, Alemaya, Ethiopia NWP award-winning essay authored by Abraham. First runner-up for 2008 Scholarship Award.

Mabank, Texas, USA NWP award-winning essay.

Sacramento, California, USA NWP award-winning essay authored by Claire. Second runner-up for 2008 Scholarship Award.

Roosevelt Park, Edison, New Jersey, USA NWP award-winning essay authored by Zahra.

Camp Bayou, Ruskin, FL, USA NWP award-winning essay authored by Janet.

Arkansas, USA NWP award-winning essay authored by Cody.