Activist in the Trenches Award!

On behalf of Center for Native Ecosystems and its Board of Directors, Rocky Mountain Clean Air Action founder and director Jeremy Nichols last week was awarded the Jasper Carlton "Activist in the Trenches Award" for fierce, uncompromising defense of endangered plants and wildlife in the Greater Southern Rockies. From left below are Erin Robertson (Center for Native Ecosystems (CNE) staff biologist), Jacob Smith (CNE Executive Director), Jay Tutchton (CNE Board Member), and Jeremy Nichols (holding the coveted award).


The award was inspired by the work of Jasper Carlton, who pioneered the use of science, citizen petitions, and lawsuits to secure protection for imperiled wildlife, fish, and plants on the brink of extinction. Prior to founding Rocky Mountain Clean Air Action, Jeremy worked with Laramie, Wyoming-based Biodiversity Conservation Alliance, carrying on the work of Jasper and securing protection for dozens of native species.

Although Rocky Mountain Clean Air Action's efforts focus on clean air and community health, our efforts are largely inspired by Jasper's advocacy. Jasper showed us that with good science, a healthy command of the law, an understanding of our rights as citizens, and dedication to protecting our environment, we could do just about anything.