The worlds most valuable environmental prize awarded in Brisbane.
The International River Foundation has announced the winner of the 20th Thiess International Riverprize this evening at the International RiverSymposium in Brisbane.
The James River in Virginia is the recipient of the $200,000 Australian dollar prize. The James River Association (JRA) is a member-supported non-profit organization and serves as the guardian and voice of the James River. When JRA were founded in 1976 the James River was deemed one of the most polluted rivers in the USA. It is now rated the healthiest major tributary of Chesapeake Bay.
Eva Abal, CEO of the International River Foundation said that the remarkable improvement in the James River's health was the result of an inclusive approach to strengthen public awareness and appreciation as well as many years of public and private investments in conservation projects.
"Riverprize is the world's foremost award in river basin management. It recognises and rewards organisations making waves in the sustainable management of the world's rivers, whether at the grassroots or transboundary level".
International River Foundation's, Professor Paul Greenfield is the Chair of the independent judging panel for the Riverprize.
"The competition for Riverprize is always very tough and the quality of submissions are of an extraordinary standard. We offer our sincere congratulations to the James River on such an outstanding and well-deserved achievement"
The International RiverSymposium runs this year at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre between now and Wednesday the 24th of October. Delegates from over 30 countries are in attendance.
