At RES, our commitment to restoring ecosystems extends beyond the projects we deliver. It lives in the communities where we work and in the organizations our employees support every day. As we celebrate Earth Day, we are reminded that meaningful environmental progress is driven not only by large-scale efforts, but also by the passion and dedication of individuals and local organizations working to make a difference.

That spirit is at the heart of our EcoGuardian Awards program, now in its third year, which recognizes and supports nonprofit organizations making a meaningful impact on the environment. We are proud to announce the 2026 EcoGuardian Award recipients. Each organization was nominated by an RES employee who has volunteered their time and experienced firsthand the impact of their work.

2026 Leadership Award Recipient: Homefields | https://www.homefields.org/
Nominated by: Michael Zubak, Restoration Technician II

We are honored to present the 2026 EcoGuardian Leadership Award to Homefields, nominated by Michael Zubak.

“Homefields brings together two of the most important things for many people, helping both the environment and people,” Michael shared. Through its work as an organic farm and community, Homefields provides meaningful opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities while producing food sustainably and giving back to the community.

This combination of environmental stewardship and social impact makes Homefields a powerful example of leadership in action.

As this year’s Leadership Award recipient, Homefields will receive a total of $15,000 in support of their mission.

Acadiana Master Naturalists | https://acadianamasternaturalists.org/
Nominated by: Bradley Bouton, Ecologist

“They do a great job of utilizing local experts to teach the public about ecology,” Bradley shared. Through workshops and outreach, the organization builds a more informed community that is engaged in protecting and improving the natural environment.

Friends of Sausal Creek | https://www.sausalcreek.org/
Nominated by: Caitlin Boise, Aquatic Ecologist

“They take a really comprehensive approach, combining restoration, education, and community involvement,” Caitlin shared. She is inspired by the tangible local impact and the opportunity to work alongside others dedicated to improving their watershed.

Milwaukee Audubon Society | https://www.milwaukeeaudubon.org/
Nominated by: Maggie Szpot, Ecological Restoration Technician

“Knowing that the work a small group of people do on a local level can make a global impact is incredibly fulfilling,” Maggie shared. She highlighted the organization’s conservation, research, and restoration efforts, as well as its strong volunteer community.

Severn River Association | https://severnriver.org/
Nominated by: Nina Roche, Capture Manager

“Their work restoring and protecting the Severn River through water quality monitoring, oyster restoration, and shoreline stabilization directly supports the kind of outcomes we deliver at RES,” Nina shared. She also highlighted the organization’s ability to connect agencies, regulators, and communities, as well as the opportunity it provides to contribute to meaningful, on-the-ground restoration work.

Spay & Neuter Nation | https://www.spayneuternation.com/
Nominated by: Kelley Ahlers, Scientist II

“Trap-neuter-vaccinate-return programs are one of the only effective and humane ways to control feral cat populations,” Kelley noted. She emphasized that the organization’s work helps protect native wildlife, improve animal welfare, and reduce ecological harm caused by invasive predators.

Trees Atlanta | https://www.treesatlanta.org/
Nominated by: Bailey Holtsmith, Land Operations Coordinator

“They’ve had such a massive positive impact on Atlanta’s urban canopy, parks, and ecology,” Bailey said. She also noted the organization’s ability to bring people together and create meaningful opportunities for community involvement.

Virginia Save Our Streams Program (Izaak Walton League of America) | https://vasos.org/
Nominated by: Leah Purdy, Scientist III

“This program certifies volunteers to monitor stream health and helps identify waterways that need restoration,” Leah explained. She values the opportunity to apply her experience while helping educate others about water quality and restoration.

The EcoGuardian Awards reflect the passion of RES employees who dedicate their time to causes that matter in their communities. By supporting these organizations, we are amplifying efforts that restore ecosystems, educate the public, and create lasting environmental and social value.

We congratulate all of this year’s recipients and thank them, as well as our employees who champion them, for the important work they do every day.