With a continued focus on recognizing residents who have taken the lead in landscape sustainability, the Conservation Advisory Committee (CAC) seeks nominations for its "A Better Newark" award. Created in 1986, the award recognizes individuals who have made improvements to the appearance of their properties, as well as those who have improved Newark's overall sustainability through energy, soil, or water conservation.

"We know there are homes throughout Newark that emulate the characteristics we seek to highlight through this award," said CAC board member Sheila Smith. "We're asking for the community's support in identifying them and allowing us to recognize our neighbors for putting in the time, effort and investment to make Newark better."

Hundreds of local backyards have been renovated to enhance the environment, earning Newark an overall designation as a "Community Wildlife Habitat" by the National Wildlife Federation. Previous "Better Newark" recipients include:

• Residents of Fountainview, who worked with their property maintenance company to install native plantings around storm water ponds;
• Ruth and Ben Toole of Arbour Park, who transformed their backyard from untamed wilderness to an attractive oasis of native plants surrounding a rock patio, complete with a dry riverbed to alleviate storm water washing out the landscaping; and
• Catriona and Stuart Binder-Macleod of Orchard Road, who made numerous landscape upgrades, along with the installation of solar panels and permeable pavers.

Awards are presented periodically and includes a commemorative proclamation signed by the Mayor of Newark accompanied with a mounted photograph. A photograph of the property will also be displayed in the lobby of City Hall. For more information on this award, to apply, or to nominate someone else please click here for a nomination form, to be considered by the CAC.