Maj (Retd) Nigel Lewis from Wiltshire receives prestigious Ministry of Defence award for his exceptional contributions to conservation volunteering. He was recognized for his remarkable commitment to the MOD Owl and Raptor Project, which has significantly contributed to the protection of owl species in the area.
Maj (Retd) Nigel Lewis Honored with Ministry of Defence Award for Conservation Volunteering
( Credit to: Salisburyjournal )
A resident of Wiltshire, Maj (Retd) Nigel Lewis, has been honored with a prestigious Ministry of Defence award for his outstanding conservation volunteering work. Nigel was presented with the Silver Otter, a coveted recognition, at the Ministry of Defence's annual Sanctuary Awards. He also received the Individual Achievement Award for his exceptional contributions to an MOD conservation project.
Nigel was awarded the Silver Otter Trophy for his remarkable commitment to the MOD Owl and Raptor Project, which he established in 1983. This project involves monitoring various owl species, including tawny owls, barn owls, little owls, and kestrels, across the MOD's Salisbury Plain Training Area. Nigel and his team of volunteers install nest boxes, conduct bird checks, and record important data such as the size and weight of chicks. Their efforts have significantly contributed to the protection of these birds.
The Sanctuary Awards, now in their 33rd year, highlight the efforts of both military and civilian personnel within the Defence sector to protect the environment and promote sustainability and conservation. The ceremony, held in Portsmouth, was live-streamed to an online audience.
The Importance of the Sanctuary Awards
The Sanctuary Awards, now in their 33rd year, recognize the efforts of military and civilian personnel within the Defence sector to protect the environment and promote sustainability and conservation. These awards highlight the importance of preserving nature and showcase outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to environmental conservation.
The annual ceremony, held in Portsmouth, brings together like-minded individuals and organizations who are dedicated to safeguarding the environment. This year's event was live-streamed to an online audience, allowing even more people to witness the remarkable achievements of the winners.
Nigel Lewis: A Remarkable Conservation Volunteer
Maj (Retd) Nigel Lewis has demonstrated exceptional dedication to conservation volunteering through his involvement in the MOD Owl and Raptor Project. Since its establishment in 1983, Nigel and his team of volunteers have been monitoring and protecting various owl species across the MOD's Salisbury Plain Training Area.
The project involves installing nest boxes, conducting bird checks, and recording vital data such as the size and weight of owl chicks. Nigel's efforts have significantly contributed to the protection and conservation of owl populations in the area.
His remarkable commitment and passion for conservation have earned him the Silver Otter Trophy, a prestigious recognition of his outstanding contributions to the project and the wider conservation community.
The MOD Owl and Raptor Project
The MOD Owl and Raptor Project, established by Nigel Lewis in 1983, focuses on monitoring and protecting owl species within the MOD's Salisbury Plain Training Area. This area is home to various owl species, including tawny owls, barn owls, little owls, and kestrels.
Through the installation of nest boxes, regular bird checks, and data recording, the project aims to ensure the well-being and conservation of these birds. The dedication of Nigel and his team of volunteers has played a crucial role in protecting and preserving owl populations in the area.
Recognition and Awards
Nigel Lewis's outstanding contributions to conservation volunteering have been recognized with the Silver Otter Trophy, a prestigious award presented at the Ministry of Defence's annual Sanctuary Awards. In addition to this honor, Nigel also received the Individual Achievement Award for his exceptional dedication to the MOD Owl and Raptor Project.
The Silver Otter Trophy is a testament to Nigel's remarkable commitment and passion for environmental conservation. It acknowledges his significant contributions to the protection of owl species and his tireless efforts in monitoring and preserving their habitats.
The Ministry of Defence's Sanctuary Awards serve as a platform to celebrate the remarkable achievements of individuals and organizations in the Defence sector who are dedicated to protecting the environment and promoting sustainability. Nigel's recognition highlights the importance of conservation volunteering and inspires others to contribute to environmental preservation.
Commitment to Sustainability and Conservation
The Ministry of Defence and its Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) are committed to sustainability and environmental conservation. The Sanctuary Awards, organized by the DIO, recognize and celebrate the efforts of military and civilian personnel in protecting the environment.
Richard Brooks, the principal environmental manager for DIO, expressed his appreciation for the winners' contributions in making Defence greener. The awards and the accompanying Sanctuary Magazine acknowledge the remarkable work carried out by MOD personnel, Defence industry suppliers, and partnerships with external environmental organizations.
Inspiring Others to Prioritize Sustainability
Dr. Alexandra Howe, the Deputy Director of Levelling Up, the Union, Climate Change and Sustainability in the MOD, praised this year's nominees and award winners for their ambition and talent in driving fundamental change. She encouraged others in the force to draw inspiration from these impressive examples and prioritize sustainability in their own work.
The achievements of individuals like Nigel Lewis serve as a reminder that every individual has the power to make a difference. By prioritizing sustainability and conservation, we can protect our environment for future generations and create a more sustainable future.
Conclusion
Maj (Retd) Nigel Lewis's exceptional contributions to conservation volunteering have earned him the prestigious Silver Otter Trophy and the Individual Achievement Award at the Ministry of Defence's Sanctuary Awards. Through his involvement in the MOD Owl and Raptor Project, Nigel has demonstrated remarkable commitment and passion for protecting owl species in the area.
The Sanctuary Awards highlight the importance of environmental conservation and celebrate the outstanding efforts of individuals and organizations within the Defence sector. Nigel's recognition serves as an inspiration for others to prioritize sustainability and contribute to the protection of our natural environment.