CIRCAC Director of Science and Research Susan Saupe has been recognized by the Pacific States/British Columbia Oil Spill Task Force with its annual Legacy Award.

The Task Force solicits nominations for candidates including individuals, teams, and entities that have carried out exemplary work in the field of oil spill prevention, preparedness and response every two years and the Legacy Award serves as the Task Force’s recognition for outstanding work and accomplishments to foster best practices, to support and protect communities, and to protect the environment.

“I was genuinely surprised when I got the news,” Saupe said. “It’s always humbling to be recognized by colleagues. I don’t consider this an individual award; the Task Force and its members have been wonderful to work with and getting this sort of recognition is as much about the support we receive as researchers as it is about any individual contribution.”

CIRCAC Executive Director Mike Munger added that the Legacy Award represents a commitment to science and safety. “There are a lot of organizations in the oil spill prevention and response world doing outstanding work, so for Sue to be singled out really speaks volumes to what her peers think of her efforts promoting the work of CIRCAC and developing a comprehensive understanding of the sensitive environment around Cook Inlet.”

Saupe was recognized by her peers throughout the region for her dedication, expertise, commitment and cooperation in establishing comprehensive programs and projects that improve and enhance prevention, preparedness, and response to oil spills in Cook Inlet and that have added immeasurable value to the overall understanding of Cook Inlet’s natural systems.