by Richard Prior
Staff Writer
John Delaney, former Jacksonville mayor and current president of the University of North Florida, is the 2003 recipient of the American Bar Association’s Award for Excellence in Environmental and Resources Stewardship.
The award is given by the ABA section of Environment, Energy and Resources.
During two terms as mayor, Delaney “brought Jacksonville to national prominence for the restoration of the St. Johns River and the preservation of its environmentally sensitive lands,” according to the announcement.
During his terms in office, Delaney organized two summits to restore and enhance the river.
The first one resulted in a five-year plan to reduce storm water pollution and improve water quality in the upper river. The project was funded with nearly $200 million from federal, state and local governments.
The second expanded the program to include the entire river, running from central to northern Florida, and focused on ways to improve water quality.
Delaney was also instrumental in having the St. Johns named an American Heritage River by President Bill Clinton in 1998.
In January 1999, Delaney kicked off The Preservation Project, a growth management and land conservation program for the river. As a result, more than 60,000 acres have been set aside for conservation and passive recreation.
The project also included plans to upgrade more than 100 local parks and preserve and enhance public access to the river and other natural assets.
More than 60 square miles have been conserved since 1999, tripling the initial five-year acquisition goal.
The project is the first program of its kind in the nation to develop a partnership with the National Park Service and the Department of Environmental Protection.
Established by the ABA Section of Environment, Energy and Resources in 2002, the Award for Excellence in Environmental and Resources Stewardship recognizes and honors the accomplishments of a person, organization or group for achievements in legal practice or business; in written articles; in teaching; in advocacy before courts, agencies, legislators or other institutions; or for any other achievement that exhibits environmental excellence.
Delaney was unavailable for comment last week.