Adam Silverman

Free Press Staff Writer

COLCHESTER - James Ehlers says he sometimes wishes groups like his were unnecessary.

"Some days it's a little frustrating that we still need environmental organizations," says Ehlers, who leads Lake Champlain International and is tireless advocate for clean water.

Ehlers spoke Thursday morning after receiving the 2016 Zetterstrom Environmental Award from Green Mountain Power. The citation, named for osprey-restoration advocate Meeri Zetterstrom of Milton, was created in 2010 and is presented annually to a person, business, group or nonprofit in honor of a significant contribution to Vermont's environment. The award includes a $2,500 donation to the winner's environmental cause.

Steve Costello of Green Mountain Power, speaking during a ceremony Thursday morning on the shores of Lake Champlain in Colchester, said each year has seen 10-20 applications for the award. Ehlers emerged from this year's contenders — in part because of his ceaseless efforts.

"This is not over. There is still so much work to do, not just on Lake Champlain but in so many different areas," Costello said.

LCI describes itself as an organization that "educates, advocates, and motivates to ensure that Lake Champlain is swimmable, drinkable and fishable, understanding that healthy water resources are essential for a healthy economy and a healthy community." Ehlers has been the group's most prominent and vocal representative.

James Ehlers' straight talk on protecting the lake

In remarks to a small group gathered in the shade under a towering tree in Bayside Park, Ehlers half-joked about how he's a constant thorn in the side of state government, and how Thursday's honor will propel him to keep up his efforts.

"This award is for me more motivation," he said, "that there's still so much more to do."

This story was first posted online on June 30, 2016. Contact Adam Silverman at 802-660-1854 or asilverman@freepressmedia.com. Follow him on Twitter at @wej12.

Do you have a breaking news tip? Call us at 802-660-6500, or send us a post on Facebook or Twitter using #BFPTips.