The Port Townsend Marine Science Center (PTMSC) is now accepting nominations for the Eleanor Stopps Environmental Leadership Award, which honors individuals who have made significant contributions to environmental stewardship on the North Olympic Peninsula.
The annual award recognizes a resident of Jefferson or Clallam County whose leadership has advanced the protection, restoration, or understanding of the region’s natural environment. The award honors the legacy of Eleanor Stopps, a visionary conservation advocate whose work helped shape environmental stewardship in the Pacific Northwest.
From the 1960s through the 1990s, Stopps was a leading voice in conservation, founding the Admiralty Audubon Chapter and continuing the efforts of Zella Schultz to protect Protection Island, home to 72,000 nesting pairs of seabirds. A tireless educator who inspired students, Girl Scouts, and community members alike, Eleanor Stopps left a lasting legacy that continues to motivate environmental action throughout the Salish Sea region.
“The Eleanor Stopps Award celebrates the people in our communities who lead with vision and determination to protect the natural world,” said PTMSC Executive Director Diane Quinn. “These are individuals whose work strengthens both our ecosystems and our collective future.”
Award Criteria
Nominees should demonstrate one or more of the following:
- Leadership in successful conservation or restoration efforts benefiting the North Olympic Peninsula
- Service as a catalyst for environmental programs, initiatives, or partnerships
- Contributions to science-based environmental education, policy, or community engagement
- A demonstrated commitment to sustainability, innovation, and environmental stewardship
Nominees must be residents of Jefferson or Clallam counties.
Groups are not eligible.
Nomination Details
For additional information, including nomination guidelines and instructions, please visit https://ptmsc.org/eleanor-stopps-environmental-leadership-award/ or email info@ptmsc.org to request a nomination form.
All nominations must be received by Thursday, August 20, 2026.
About the Eleanor Stopps Environmental Leadership Award
Established in honor of conservation leader Eleanor Stopps, the award recognizes individuals who exemplify the spirit of grassroots environmental leadership. Stopps was a key figure in Northwest conservation efforts, including founding the Admiralty Audubon Chapter and advocating for the establishment of the Protection Island National Wildlife Refuge.
Each year, PTMSC presents the award to a community member whose work reflects Stopps’ legacy of dedication, courage, and environmental stewardship.