The Maryland Sustainable Growth Commission is now accepting nominations for its first annual “Maryland Sustainable Growth Awards.”  From a September 20 press release:

The Maryland Sustainable Growth Awards are being launched to bring recognition to people, projects and programs that enhance smart growth and sustainability in the state. The awards are being judged by the Maryland Sustainable Growth Commission. The commission will announce the recipients in February 2013.  …

“The intent of these awards is to help shed light on some of the exemplary work going on in Maryland to focus new growth in existing communities, to preserve sustainable places and to conserve Maryland’s rural and natural resource lands,” said Growth Commission Chairman Jon M. Laria.

Awards are being presented in three areas:

• Leadership and service
• Smart growth communities for public and private-sector projects or activities that improve the economy, environment or the quality of life.
• Preservation and Conservation for the work of individuals or entities to protect or improve farms, forests, natural resources and the waters of Maryland.

The commission’s award committee will also assess how the programs and projects, whether private or public, have helped further the 12 “Planning Visions” that the General Assembly approved as part of the Smart, Green & Growing legislation of 2009. The activity or service must have been completed within the last two years or be ongoing. Nominations may be made by project sponsors or by others on their behalf.