For Immediate Release

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New Jersey Clean Communities Council Honors a Steward of Camden County Land With the “Public Lands Cleanup Award”

HAMMONTON, NJ – June 27, 2018 – Michael Hogan, an employee of South Jersey Land and Water Trust (SJLWT) in Hammonton, has won the “Public Lands Cleanup Award” from the New Jersey Clean Communities Council (NJCCC).

Under the county’s contract with the SJLWT, Hogan is responsible for coordinating the “Stewards of Open Space” program, with an army of volunteers to maintain county property purchased through its open space program.

Hogan has coordinated dozens of cleanups of Camden County’s open space conservation areas and parks since 2010, removing tons of litter and illegally dumped waste in these areas.

Jack Sworaski, Director of the Camden County Environmental Affairs, who also serves on the NJCCC Board of Directors, nominated Hogan for his diligent work and dedication to SJLWT.

“Through Michael’s efforts, these lands are kept litter-free without the need for maintenance by County Parks personnel,” Sworaski said.“But Michael’s efforts go far beyond a traditional litter pick up. Michael uses these clean ups as an opportunity to both educate and entertain, leading volunteers in a macro invertebrate studies and nature walks after the work is done.

“More impressive is his efforts in working with local utility companies to install gates and other barriers on easements that previously provided convenient access for illegal dumping,” Sworaski added. “Through these efforts, illegal dumping has all but stopped in these areas.”

NJCCC is a comprehensive, statewide litter-abatement program that has served New Jersey residents and visitors for more than 25 years. Learn more at njclean.org.