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Conservation Stewardship Award winners announced

Independence Homeowners Association accepts the 2025 Conservation Stewardship Award for HOA for its Tribute Program. Shown are (l-r) Janet Bagnell; Rich Bagnell; Cindy Siegafuse; Joe Clarke, enhancement subcommittee chairman; Harvey Johnson, HOA president; and Richard Watson, common area committee chairman. SUBMITTED PHOTOS
March 31, 2025
Jean Rothenburger, Chapel Green Homeowners Association president, accepts the award for Green Conservation for its drain field improvement project.
Envirotech Environmental Consulting Inc. accepts the 2025 Conservation Stewardship Award for Certified Construction Reviewer for their work at Beachtree Preserve. Shown are Jackelyn Toggart, left, director of corporate operations, and Todd Fritchman, lead environmental professional.
Carl M. Freeman Companies accepts the 2025 Conservation Stewardship Award for Developer for its work at Americana Bayside. Shown are (l-r) Smith Purdum, senior land development manager; Rich Rishel, director of construction and land development; Lisa Meck, community development director; Christi Davis, lifestyle manager, and Erika Cook, director of marketing.
Renee J. VanHouten, center, of K. Hovnanian Homes accepts the 2025 Conservation Stewardship Award for Project Manager. Celebrating her accomplishment are in back (l-r) Jonathan Contant, entitlements manager; Cody Cole, land development manager; Mike Racine, land development superintendent; and Mike Irons, vice president land development. In front are Mark Angelus, director of land development; and Sondra Hearn, purchasing manager.
D.R. Horton accepts the 2025 Conservation Stewardship Award for Homebuilder. Shown are in back (l-r) Wes Whitlock, area construction manager; Chris Zakrociemski, land development area manager; and Andrew Fillman, area construction manager. In front are Shawn Waters, division construction manager; Rob Herring, project manager; John Hardy, NPDES administrator; and Devin Medd, land development project manager.

The Sussex Conservation District recently held a luncheon ceremony to recognize the recipients of the 2025 Conservation Stewardship Awards.

Now in its fourth year, the annual CSA program continues to celebrate outstanding individuals, businesses and organizations that go above and beyond in protecting and enhancing Sussex County’s natural resources.

“We are thrilled to see how this event has grown over the years,” said Jessica Watson, sediment and stormwater program manager at SCD. “The commitment and innovation demonstrated by this year’s winners are truly inspiring. They don’t just meet sediment and stormwater regulations—they exceed them, ensuring a lasting positive impact on our environment.”

This year, 17 entries were carefully reviewed by a panel of judges from SCD and representatives from the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, the Delaware Department of Agriculture and the Delaware Center for the Inland Bays.

The 2025 Conservation Stewardship Award category winners are: 

Certified Construction Reviewer, Envirotech Environmental Consulting Inc., Beachtree Preserve, for proactive work in identifying compliance issues and implementing sustainable solutions to protect water quality and natural habitats.

Developer (Residential), Carl M. Freeman, Americana Bayside, for decades-long dedication to responsible land development, exceeding stormwater regulations and enhancing community open spaces.

Green Conservation, Chapel Green, drain field improvement project, acknowledged for its innovative transformation of a decommissioned drain field into a thriving ecosystem, benefiting both wildlife and the community.

Homebuilder, D.R. Horton, recognized for continued excellence in erosion control, pollution prevention and sustainable construction practices in high-volume homebuilding.

Homeowner Association, Independence, Tribute Program, celebrated for its commitment to conservation and community engagement, demonstrating how HOAs can lead effective environmental initiatives.

Project Manager (Residential), Renee J. VanHouten, K. Hovnanian Homes, honored for her leadership in ensuring compliance, managing sustainable site development and fostering a culture of conservation.

Site Contractor (Residential), Gaines & Company, Somerton Chase, awarded dedication to sediment and stormwater management, exceeding regulatory standards and maintaining strong industry partnerships.

“Every winner today is making a tangible difference in Sussex County,” said David Baird, district coordinator at SCD. “Their efforts ensure that our natural resources are protected for future generations, and we hope their success stories inspire even more conservation efforts.”

 

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