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www.insideHALTON.com | OAKVILLE BEAVER | Thursday, March 21, 2013 | 20 Nominations of environment protectors sought Do you know a person or organization that has worked hard to protect, preserve or enhance the environment? Conservation Halton Environmental Awards of Excellence, recognize environmental champions -- individuals, groups or organizations. Organizers of the awards say the nominees can be people who are committed to `green', who promoted an environment initiative, either large or small, who encouraged others to get involved or who did something to benefit the local environment. Previous winners include residents, schools, multinational corporations, community environmental groups, government and national non-government organizations. Nominations must be received by midnight on Friday, May 3, and can be submitted online at www. conservationhalton.ca, or by calling 905-336-1158, ext. 233. There are eight award categories: · Citizen Award -- presented to an individual who has made a significant effort to improve the natural environment in the Halton Watershed · Citizen (Youth) Award -- presented to a youth who has made a significant effort to improve the natural environment in the Halton Watershed · Community Award -- presented to a community organization, institution or business that has undertaken a significant conservation action that exemplifies wise conservation · Corporate Award -- presented to a corporation or municipality that demonstrates leadership in protecting and enhancing the natural environment · Education (Individual) Award -- presented to a person who has promoted a better understanding and appreciation of conservation · Education (Group or School) Award -- presented to a group or school that has promoted a better understanding and appreciation of conservation · Media/Blogger Award -- presented to a member of the print, radio, television, or online media including website, social media campaigns and blogs that raises awareness of environmental issues, challenges and solutions in the watershed · Stewardship Award -- presented to a landowner who shows stewardship excellence in protecting the natural environment of their property Course is for new Canadians An intensive eight-week certificate workshop on the community environmental sector begins in April for new Canadians. It's part of a joint initiative between Conservation Halton (CH) and FutureWatch EDEP offering training for foreign-trained environmental professionals. Hassaan Basit, CH's communications director, said the new Canadian Stewardship Course, which is part of the Natural Connections Program will allow participants to see how their "energy, experience and skills can help protect our local environment." It begins in April, with expert speakers delivering a weekly workshop. FutureWatch EDEP spokesperson Eduardo Garay said the course is a great "starting point for foreign-trained professionals." The course is free, however there is a $15 registration fee for candidates who are admitted. Successful participants will receive a certificate at a formal graduation ceremony during the Conservation Halton Awards of Excellence June 13. For more, visit www.nchalton.ca.