Sponsors

Peter Behr Steward of the Land & Sea Award
Madeline Nieto Hope

Madeline is a true champion of sustainability, whose diligence, creativity, and leadership have driven community change and coastal protection in West Marin for over three decades.

We recognize and celebrate her long-standing commitment to sustainability, impactful partnerships, zero waste, resilient local food systems, and youth education and mentorship. Her remarkable vision and deep-rooted community connections have brought together governing agencies, organizations, and individuals to improve systems that protect our coast and environment.

Through her work with Cleaner California Coast, her former leadership with EAC, and her creative efforts as an artist, Madeline has inspired change by reusing, repurposing, repairing, and upcycling items often destined for the landfill. She actively shares her passion for social and environmental transformation through hands-on community projects and by supporting local nonprofits with zero-waste tools, event supplies, and field expertise.

Madeline promotes a spirit of possibility and hope in every space she enters. Her tireless activism and deep care for both people and planet continue to leave a lasting legacy in West Marin and beyond.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to work in the West Marin community, implementing agreed-upon, impactful strategic frameworks, such as the Cleaner California Coast-Leave No Trace Initiative and the West Marin Food Systems Group’s Initiatives, which include School Wellness, Community Meals, Farms, and Gardens. After many decades of working in the field, practicing shared leadership with the County of Marin staff and place-based partners across West Marin, it’s moving to see meaningful progress take root. This progress is made possible through the collaborative efforts of key organizations and parrtners, including the Environmental Action Committee of West Marin, Leave No Trace, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Innovative Health Solutions, West Marin Climate Action, Marin Community Foundation, West Marin Fund and numerous others committed to a more connected community and a resilient future.”

"This is quite an award and such an honor to come from EAC. Thank you so much for recognizing the work that I do. It really means a lot to know that it is noticed."

Public Service Award
Nancy Scolari

Nancy is a true public servant whose unwavering commitment to protecting and restoring the environment has defined her career. For 25 years, she has served as the Executive Director of the Marin Resource Conservation District, where she has played a pivotal role in uniting environmental stewardship with the needs of working ranches.

Under her leadership, the District has become a model for how conservation can succeed on private lands. Nancy has fostered strong partnerships with landowners, funders, and the broader public to restore streams, reduce erosion, enhance water quality, and protect vital habitats. Her visionary approach has attracted private, local, state, and federal funding, support that has allowed the District to grow its professional team to include hydrologists, soil scientists, engineers, and biologists.

Nancy’s tireless advocacy and trusted leadership were affirmed when Marin County voters overwhelmingly approved the extension of Measure A, a critical funding source for the District’s conservation programs. One of her highest priorities has been the recovery of anadromous fisheries in the Tomales Bay watershed. Thanks to her work and the efforts of the District team, many miles of West Marin streams have seen their riparian habitats restored, and the water quality of Tomales Bay has been meaningfully improved and protected. Nancy’s legacy is one of collaboration, innovation, and measurable environmental impact—an inspiring example of what dedicated public service can achieve.

“The mission of EAC is close to my heart, and I have deep respect for its work. I've been involved for years with the people and organizations who educate and protect these lands, and was delighted to be asked to be on the committee of the Point Reyes Birding and Nature Festival.”

Volunteer of the Year Award
Ellen Thomas

Ellen Thomas was an invaluable member of the Point Reyes Birding & Nature Festival Committee, serving primarily as the Field Volunteer Coordinator with unwavering dedication and exceptional organizational skill. Her role was crucial in connecting field volunteers with guides for nearly 60 events—an effort that ensured smooth operations and a positive experience for participants and guides alike.

Now retired, Ellen brought a wealth of knowledge and professionalism to her volunteer work. As a California Naturalist and park docent, combined with her extensive administrative experience at esteemed institutions like Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Disney’s ImageMovers Digital, and Lucasfilm, she approached her work with focus, precision, and care. Her contributions extended far beyond her main role. She also supported volunteer coordination during keynote speaker events and stepped in wherever help was needed, significantly expanding the festival's capacity to serve attendees.

Her attention to detail, proactive planning, and genuine connection with volunteers fostered a collaborative, supportive environment that reflected our organization’s values. Her dedication to environmental education, community engagement, and volunteerism truly exemplifies the spirit of stewardship at the heart of all our work.

"The Earth has always been giving so much to all of us, so I wanted to help in the movement of giving back, by helping take care of our coast." 

Next Generation Youth Advocacy Award
Cora Whelan

Cora, a 6th-grade student at Heartwood Charter School, recently completed a powerful service project as part of her class’s Knighting Project, a tradition in which each student selects a noble cause to support with their time, talent, and treasure. Students are encouraged to champion something meaningful to them, whether it’s an organization, a person, or a charitable effort.

After researching and learning about many organizations doing important work, Cora felt especially drawn to the Environmental Action Committee of West Marin (EAC). Her love for nature and deep appreciation for the land and waters of West Marin made supporting EAC a natural choice.

As part of her project, Cora organized a beach clean-up to directly protect the places she loves. But she didn’t stop there. She also launched a fundraising effort, rallying support from friends and family to raise $250 to benefit EAC’s mission of environmental protection and advocacy in the region.

Cora’s thoughtful, hands-on approach and genuine passion for the environment embody the spirit of stewardship we strive to cultivate in the community. We are honored she chose EAC as her noble cause and grateful for her efforts to protect West Marin’s natural beauty.