ASLA Honors Interior Secretary Salazar

United States Department of the Interior Secretary Ken Salazar was awarded the Olmsted Medal during the American Society of Landscapea Architects 2010 Annual Meeting and Expo.

The medal recognizes individuals, organizations, agencies or programs outside the profession of landscape architecture for environmental leadership, vision and stewardship. Through his work as Colorado Attorney General, United States Senator and now with the Department of the Interior, Salazar repeatedly fought to protect America’s public lands. From fending off water diversion projects in Colorado to helping protect salmon in the Pacific Northwest, he demonstrates the rare ability to balance and resolve complex environmental policy issues that protect the country’s natural resources.

In his remarks, the Secretary thanked landscape architects for their commitment to protecting and preserving our nation’s natural treasures, and applauded the profession for designing “memorable places.”

Secretary Salazar’s remarks centered on America’s Great Outdoors (AGO) initiative, launched by President Barack Obama this spring. The Initiative is a national dialogue about conservation and reconnecting Americans with the outdoors. During his remarks, Secretary Salazar outlined his plans to engage the public on his vision of protecting and preserving our natural and cultural resources, creating the next generation of great urban parks, and encouraging young people to spend more time in the outdoors.

Oehme, van Sweden congratulates Secretary Salazar on this honor!