Since 1993, Kitsap County Public Works and the Board of County Commissioners have been recognizing local Earth Day Award winners — community members who provide outstanding environmental stewardship.
This year’s winners were publicly nominated for their service toward sustainability, recycling, litter control, habitat protection and renewable energy. These Earth Day Award winners continue to make a difference in our community by leading the way and informing others of environmental issues.
Harold and Spencer Fronsman
Harold and Spencer (ages 6 and 8) have taken it upon themselves to pick up litter in their neighborhood. They routinely clear litter from the roadway and make sure that their neighbors enjoy a clean and safe outdoor space.
The boys always separate and clean the recyclable items they find. Their efforts keep our environment healthy and set an excellent example for the community.
Hans Daubenberger and Nicole Venneman, Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe
Nicole Daubenberger and Hans Venneman are vital contributors to the protection and preservation of the natural habitat in North Kitsap. They work tirelessly on research and reports used to inform tribal, state and federal policies and projects. These policies and projects are vital to the protection of the Puget Sound and Hood Canal.
They advocate for and work using environmentally friendly methods, such as the relocating of trees after a clearing. They are described by their nominator as being consistent, committed and passionate protectors of the environment.
Alan Chessman, Kingston Community Solar
Alan Chessman organized Kingston Community Solar, a group responsible for getting solar panels installed on Kingston Village Green Community Center in 2016. The project would not have been completed were it not for his efforts at researching, collaborating and securing funding.
Chessman continues to administer and manage the project, which provides a significant portion of energy to the community center. This project supplies renewable energy and benefits the community as a whole.
The North Kitsap Heritage Park Stewardship Group
These stewards have demonstrated exceptional commitment to protecting and restoring North Kitsap Heritage Park. They have spent thousands of volunteer hours on park projects. Their contributions include delineating wetlands, removing invasive plants, clearing paths and creating trails. They have increased the biodiversity in the park by underplanting thousands of tree seedlings.
The stewards work to provide a healthy and sustainable 800-plus acres of lowland forest and wetland in Puget Sound. Their work benefits the park’s invertebrates, fish, amphibians, mammals, present and future visitors and the community at large.
Modern Collision Rebuild & Repair, Aaron and Micah Strom
Modern Collision Rebuild & Repair owners Aaron and Micah Strom have maintained their business as a leader in sustainable practices since first winning an Earth Day award 20 years ago. Their policies and procedures ensure reduced environmental impact and protect the community, such as reducing VOCs and improving air quality.
The couple are adamant about properly disposing of hazardous waste products and recycling, and has also adopted a state highway for litter cleanup. Their conscious effort to provide eco-friendly services benefits the environment and the community.
Deborah DuBois, Keyport Saltwater Stewardship Group and Saltwater Park Committee
Deborah DuBois is an invaluable asset in restoring native plants and habitat to Saltwater Park in Keyport. Since 2018, she has volunteered 536 hours and filled 389 noxious weed bags. She completed a Native Plant ID class and used that knowledge to create signs labeling native plants in the park.
In an effort to benefit the park even further, DuBois is completing the Kitsap County Park Forest Steward training program. Her nominator describes her devotion to Saltwater Park as an inspiration to all those who know her.
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