U.S. Senator Barbara A. Mikulski (D-Md.) was honored by the Maryland League of Conservation Voters last night, Oct. 19, with its annual John V. Kabler Memorial Award. The award was given in recognition of Senator Mikulski’s many achievements in protecting Maryland’s land, air and water. The award recognizes outstanding environmental leadership and commitment. 

Senator Mikulski has a 35-year record of public service in Maryland. She is a dedicated public servant who from her earliest days in the spotlight understood what was “Smart Growth” and what was not—long before anyone had ever heard the term. As a member of the powerful Appropriations Committee, Mikulski fights every year for federal funding for environmental programs, especially the Chesapeake Bay Program, the Clean Water State Revolving Fund, and the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund.  

A trailblazer in drawing attention to the effects of global warming on the Bay, Mikulski funds 85 percent of the nation’s climate change-related science as Chairwoman of Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations Subcommittee. Her stalwart defense of the environment in Maryland is embodied in her support for building a green jobs workforce, protecting the Chesapeake Bay, and for a clean energy economy. 

“I’m so honored to accept this award. From the House to the Senate, I’ve loved any legislation that had water in it. Using my committee assignments, I’ve tried to be a champion for saving communities, saving lives and, in some small way, saving the planet,” Senator Mikulski said. “I’ll continue to fight for the Bay, and invest in the green sciences so we have the right ideas to come up with the right science to combat the global climate change crisis. Thank you for honoring me tonight. I’m so proud to be your partner in fighting for a greener, cleaner future.” 

“We are thrilled to honor Sen. Mikulski for her long and accomplished record of protecting the Environment for people of Maryland,” said Cindy Schwartz, Executive Director of the Maryland League of Conservation Voters.