For more than 15 years, Laura has actively and effectively worked to bring restorative change to the Penobscot River. In her past role as Rivers Coordinator for the Natural Resources Council of Maine, Laura organized, initiated and guided negotiations for the Penobscot River Restoration Project, which began in 1999. Laura then facilitated the completion and signing of a Multiparty Settlement Agreement and oversaw the creation of the Penobscot River Restoration Trust in 2004, the acquisition of three dams on the river in 2010, the removal of two of those dams in 2012 and 2013, and the expected completion of an innovative fish bypass in 2015. The bypass will improve fish access to some 1,000 miles of quality habitat in the river and its tributaries that Laura has helped restore and protect.

“We are so impressed by this year’s River Heroes. These are people who go far beyond what we expect and even what we imagine is possible for our rivers,” said Nicole Silk, River Network President. “Local champions like these are a critical ingredient to a future where healthy rivers and thriving communities are the rule rather than the exception. By elevating their accomplishments, we hope that they inspire others to do more for our most precious resource, water.”

River Network’s 2015 River Heroes award banquet honoring the winners will be held on May 4, 2015 as part of the organization’s annual conference. This year’s event is in New Mexico and will include over 400 river advocates and enthusiasts from across the U.S. and around the world.