HUDSON RIVER SLOOP CLEARWATER RECEIVES STATE BAR'S ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD

ALBANY, NY (01/30/2015)(readMedia)-- The New York State Bar Association has honored Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, a not-for-profit organization, with its 2015 Environmental Law Section award.

Peter A. Gross, executive director of Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, Inc. accepted the award at the Bar Association's Annual Meeting in New York City January 29. The Environmental Law Section presents the award to an individual or organization with a record of significant achievement, meaningful contribution and distinguished service to the environment.

For more than 45 years, the Clearwater, a replica of the historic Dutch sloops that plied the Hudson River in the 18th and 19th centuries, has been the most visible symbol of the organization's work. Founded by singer-songwriter Pete Seeger, Hudson River Sloop Clearwater has been at the forefront of the environmental movement as a champion of the Hudson River. It provides innovative educational programs, environmental advocacy, and musical celebrations in an effort to inspire and educate the public.

"The Clearwater was given the section award for the advocacy work it has done in preserving the Hudson River and for providing the public an opportunity to experience the beauty of the river from the water rather than the shore," said Terresa M. Bakner of Albany (Whiteman Osterman & Hanna), chair of the New York State Bar Association's Environmental Law Section.

The experience of sailing on the Clearwater provides both a historical and environmental perspective. "By this award, we hope to draw additional attention to the work of Hudson River Sloop Clearwater and the importance of sustaining it," said Barry R. Kogut of Syracuse (Bond, Schoeneck & King), chair of the awards committee of the Environmental Law Section.

The New York State Bar Association, with 74,000 members, is the largest voluntary state bar association in the country. It was founded in 1876.

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