NAS Whiting wins state award

NAVAL AIR STATION WHITING FIELD, Fla. – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Northwest District, recognized Naval Air Station Whiting Field with the Outstanding Environmental Stewardship award in early January. The environmental stewardship award program recognizes businesses, professional and community organizations, and local governments within DEP’s Northwest District for proactive, innovative, and exceptional achievements that prevent or reduce impacts on the environment beyond measures that are required by permit or rules. To be considered for recognition, participants must demonstrate significant and measurable achievements above and beyond what is required by law. Whiting Field was recognized for several initiatives such as using prescribed burning to maintain and enhance habitat health, prevent wildfires and control invasive species. During fiscal year 2019, nearly 1,500 acres were managed through prescribed fire to aid in habitat recovery, training and the revitalization of rare and endangered species such as the Reticulated Flatwoods Salamander and Gopher Tortoise. The Northwest District in which the competition was based runs from Escambia County to Jefferson County, and is one of six Florida districts. (Source: NAS Whiting Field, 01/27/21)