DES MOINES - Governor Chet Culver honored 15 Iowa businesses and organizations for their outstanding contributions to the environment in a ceremony on July 29 at the Capitol.

"Their efforts show the bright and optimistic future for our state," said Culver. "These committed individuals and companies are sending a message through their achievements. They are proving that smart, 'green growth' today will benefit Iowa's economy while protecting our natural resources."

The awards are the premier environmental honors in Iowa, recognizing leadership and innovation in the protection of Iowa's natural resources. The prestigious Environmental Excellence Award honors organizations with comprehensive environmental ethics and commitment, while special project awards recognize specific environmental improvements.

"Iowa is a land of stunning beauty, and thanks to their efforts, future generations will be able to enjoy Iowa's lands, lakes, rivers and streams," Culver said.

The winners included:

Environmental Excellence Award:
* Waste Commission of Scott County, Davenport
* MidAmerican Energy, Davenport
* Vermeer Corporation, Pella

Special Recognition in Energy Efficiency/Renewable Energy:
* Buffalo Bill Museum, Inc., Le Claire
* Curries Division of AADG, Inc., Mason City

Special Recognition in Waste Management:
* Muscatine Power and Water, Muscatine
* DuPont Nemours E I & Co., Fort Madison

Special Recognition in Water Quality:
* City of North Liberty, in partnership with Fox Engineering Associates, Inc. (Ames) and Shive-Hattery, Inc. (Iowa City), North Liberty
* Holiday Lake Owner’s Association, Inc., Brooklyn

Special Recognition in Air Quality:
* Arnold’s Body Shop, Davenport
* Northern Natural Gas Company, Omaha, Neb.

Special Recognition in Environmental Education:
* Recycling and Reuse Technology Transfer Center, Cedar Falls
* Alliant Energy, Cedar Rapids
* Iowa Storm Water Education Program (Iowa Association of Municipal Utilities), Ankeny

Special Recognition in Disaster Recovery:
* Alliant Energy, Cedar Rapids