Lambton Shores Nature Trails (LSNT) has been named Conservationist of the Year.
The award was handed during the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) Partner Appreciation night in Exeter last month.
The award acknowledges one individual or group per year who demonstrated positive conservation principles.
This can include things like improving local water quality, conservation farming, reforestation, environmental education, providing wildlife and fish habitat and promoting environmental awareness and action.
LSNT won the award for protecting the natural environment and providing recreational opportunities.
"We're honestly overwhelmed and very humbled in being recognized with this award," said Director Mary Lou Tasko. "We really appreciate it and we look forward to many more years working with the ABCA to do good things for our community."
LSNT started in 2011 by a group of residents passionate about nature and hiking.
The groups work includes trail maintenance, roadside and garbage clean-up, tree planting, invasive species control and turtle nesting protection.
Additionally, volunteers help maintain local conservation lands including L-Lake Management Area and Ausable River Cut Conservation Area.
ABCA said the organization is active in erecting signs, marking trails and repairing fences.
"Those kinds of things allow more people to enjoy the natural environment," said Tasko.
Other projects from LSNT include the wind phone and accessible docks at Ausable River Cut Conservation Area.
The group received a hand-crafted gift and a donation will be made towards a tree and plaque at a Commemorative Woods site maintained by Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation.
