Francis Golet, Professor of Wetland Ecology at the University of Rhode Island’s Department of Natural Resources Science, has won the 2004 National Wetlands Award for Science Research. He will be honored at a ceremony on May 20th at the Senate Caucus Room in Washington, DC for his work as a researcher and educator.
Beginning with his dissertation research in the early 1970s, Dr. Golet is among the first researchers to focus on classification and assessment of wetland functions and values. He is the author of Classification of Freshwater Wetlands in the Glaciated Northeast and co-author of Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States. The latter document serves as a national standard, has contributed immeasurably to wetland management and protection, and has enabled the development of modern wetland laws by providing definitional bases for protection."Frank Golet is an example of that rare breed of scientist who works with his head and his heart," said Thomas Ardito of the Narragansett Bay Estuary Program, who nominated Golet for the award. "Beyond his many achievements in wetland science, he is an accomplished naturalist, dedicated teacher, and reasoned advocate for wetland preservation and restoration."
In 30 years of teaching at the University of Rhode Island, Golet has shared his passion for and knowledge of wetlands with hundreds of students. Nearly 150 of his former students have gone on to professional careers in wetland science at state and federal agencies, universities, non-governmental organizations, and environmental consulting firms in 21 states.
"Frank is one of the most gifted teachers on campus," said Peter August, Professor of Natural Resources Science at University of Rhode Island. "His wetland ecology classes are always booked to capacity and are the most rigorous courses offered at our college. Frank has trained a whole generation of wetland scientists who are now leaders in research, management, and conservation throughout the United States."
Since 1989, the National Wetlands Awards program has honored exceptional individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary effort, innovation, and excellence in wetland conservation, research, or education through programs or projects at the regional, state, or local level. The program is co-sponsored by the Environmental Law Institute, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, USDA Forest Service, NOAA Fisheries, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
"We are grateful for the exceptional efforts of these awardees," said Major General Carl A. Strock, Director of Civil Works, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. "Their efforts to protect and preserve our nation’s wetlands help sustain healthy aquatic habitats for diverse species of plants, fish, and wildlife. The well-being of natural communities is essential to the quality of our lives."
For more information please contact Erica Pencak at the Environmental Law Institute at (202) 939-3822 or