Area professor lauded for improving waterways

A biology professor at Southern Wesleyan University, Dr. Rocky Nation, is among a group that was recognized with the 2015 Beyond Borders Award for their enthusiasm and dedication to improving waterways in Georgia and South Carolina. The award is given to an Adopt-A-Stream group or volunteer outside Georgia for demonstrating drive and commitment to monitor and protect a watershed shared between Georgia and neighboring states. Also receiving the award were Carrie Koenigstein, professor and department chair of biology and chemistry at Anderson University; Erika Hollis, project manager for Upstate Forever’s Clean Air and Water Program; and Cathy Reas, natural resources agent for Pickens County, Clemson Extension Service. The group is credited with establishing, coordinating and expanding the Georgia Adopt-A-Stream program into Upstate South Carolina. They have written grants to acquire funding for equipment and have worked to build and strengthen partnerships with local governments, universities and nonprofit conservation organizations to promote and support the volunteer monitoring effort in South Carolina.