The Susquehanna River Basin Commission presented its William W. Jeanes, Sr. Award for Environmental Excellence to R. John Dawes of the Western Pennsylvania Watershed Program. The Jeanes Award honors organizations and individuals who contribute to the protection of water quality.

John Dawes of Alexandria, Huntingdon County received SRBC's fifth Jeanes Award for his contributions to water quality protection and support of watershed groups, particularly as Administrator of the Western Pennsylvania Watershed Program, which provides financial support and guidance to local watershed and volunteer-based organizations. Dawes also was cited for his leadership in several watershed organizations and for working tirelessly in 2006 with a coalition that assisted in the landmark reauthorization of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act.

Swartz said, "John Dawes has devoted himself, both professionally and in his personal life, to watershed restoration and protection. The Commission is pleased to honor and recognize his countless contributions toward the reduction of abandoned mine drainage, streamside litter, nonpoint source pollution, and other sources of water quality impairment."