Nutrien’s Caring for our Watersheds (CFW) program was the proud recipient of a 2011 Alberta Emerald Award in the Education: Non-Formal category.

“The Emerald Award is like winning an Oscar for environmental stewardship in Alberta. It is a huge accomplishment to win this prestigious award and we are very honoured,” said Lindsey Verhaeghe, 2011 Program Coordinator. “The Caring for our Watersheds program continues to grow thanks to our community partners who are dedicated to mentoring the students on the state of their local watershed.”

Empowering Students to Bring Their Ideas to Life

“The students have incredible ideas on how to improve our local environment and we are committed to helping them make their ideas happen,” added Verhaeghe.

The key to the success of the CFW program relies in taking action after the contest. All students are encouraged to implement their idea. Nutrien offers over $100,000 per year to help students’ ideas become reality.

Good for the Environment = Good for our Communities

“I have seen the spectacular innovation and ideas put forth in Caring for our Watersheds. I strongly believe this contest will be beneficial not only to our environment but to the communities where we operate,” said [former] Nutrien President and Chief Executive Officer Mike Wilson. ”What better way to help grow the next generation but by engaging them and asking for help in seeking solutions in our communities.”

A university student at the ceremonies commented that all of the generations need to work together to take care of our environment and Nutrien couldn’t agree more. By working together we can make a difference.

2011 was the 20th year that the Emerald Awards have taken place.

“Albertans are passionate about balancing the development of this province’s rich resources with environmental stewardship. The Emerald Awards recognize and reward the excellent environmental initiatives undertaken each year.” (Alberta Emerald Foundation, 2011).

Related Links:

• Video showcasing Nutrien’s nomination in the category of Education: Non-Formal

Related Documents:

• Congratulatory Letter from Parliament – As word of the Emerald Award spread, accolades for the educational program came in from everywhere.

WATCH VIDEO

On Monday, April 18, 2011 Alberta’s Minister of Environment, Honourable Rob Renner, greeted seven Caring for our Watersheds (CFW) winners and their chaperons at the Legislative Building.

The CFW group had the privilege of visiting with Minister Renner in his office. The CFW students were given an opportunity to explain their ideas to Minister Renner and again to MLA Broyce Jacobs.

Later in the afternoon, Minister Renner introduced the Caring for our Watersheds group in Alberta’s Legislative Assembly.