Vivian Matuk, an environmental boating program coordinator with the California Department of Boating and Waterways, was recently honored with the 2011 BoatUS Foundation's Environmental Leadership Award.
For 10 years, she has helped boaters and anglers keep waterways clean by developing recycling programs, reducing the sources of pollution and training volunteers through California's dockwalkers program, the foundation said.
"Vivian is in the field talking to boaters every day about how they can reduce their impact and is a great partner to work with," said Susan Shingledecker, the BoatUS Foundation's director of clean water, in a statement.
"She spearheaded the 'Keep the Delta Clean Program' and looked for solutions to the environmental issues that frustrate many boaters, such as what to do with old, expired flares or the absorbent pads used to soak up engine oil, for which she developed an innovative exchange program," she added. "She is also the Golden State angler's best friend, overseeing 40 BoatUS Foundation fishing line recycling bins, helping us report the success of this program and making it stronger."
Two other people received Environmental Commendations: David White, of New York Sea Grant, for his "Discover Clean and Safe Boating Education Campaign," and April Price, of Treasure Coast, Fla., for her coordination of the Treasure Coast Waterway Cleanup, which covers more than 125 miles of Florida waterways.
