Central Nova News

The City of Alexandria Environmental Policy Commission, in collaboration with AlexRenew, is currently seeking nominations for the 2025 Ellen Pickering Environmental Excellence Award. This accolade aims to honor those within the Alexandria community who are committed to environmental protection and conservation of local natural resources. The deadline for submitting nominations is March 14, 2025.

Earth Month 2025 will be marked by various activities under the theme "Steps to a Greener Alexandria," culminating in the announcement of the Pickering Award winner at Del Ray GardenFest on April 27, 2025.

This award commemorates Ellen Pickering's legacy, a former City Council member and board member of AlexRenew. Known for her advocacy in environmental conservation, Ms. Pickering played a crucial role in making the Potomac River waterfront accessible to the public and contributed to establishing the Mount Vernon Trail between Alexandria and Washington, DC. She also oversaw planting 1,000 cherry trees during her time as chair of the Alexandria Beautification Commission.

Eligibility for nomination extends to residents, groups, clubs, organizations, or corporate entities operating within Alexandria whose actions have positively impacted the city's natural environment.

The selection committee comprises representatives from AlexRenew, the Alexandria Environmental Policy Commission, and members of Ms. Pickering's family. Each year they recognize an individual or organization demonstrating significant contributions toward environmental care.

For more details about eligibility criteria and nominating procedures, interested parties are encouraged to visit the Ellen Pickering Environmental Excellence Award page.