District names Dr. Graham Lewis 2019 ‘River and Bay Champion’

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EASPOINT – Dr. Graham Lewis was named the 2019 winner of the “River and Bay Champion” award on Thursday by the Governing Board of the Northwest Florida Water Management District.

The award is presented annually to recognize individuals who make significant contributions toward the restoration and protection of the river and bays in northwest Florida.

“Graham Lewis has been and continues to be a champion for the protection of the Apalachicola River and Bay as well as other rivers and bays across northwest Florida,” said George Roberts, Chairman of the Governing Board of the Northwest Florida Water Management District. “Graham’s knowledge of the Apalachicola River and Bay system was invaluable in helping the state of Florida in its case against Georgia before the Supreme Court.”

Dr. Lewis recently retired as a Senior Environmental Scientist following a 25-year career with the Northwest Florida Water Management District.

“Graham dedicated a quarter century of his career toward the understanding and restoration of these priceless natural systems, so I can’t think of a more deserving recipient,” said Brett Cyphers, Executive Director of the Northwest Florida Water Management District.

Among the highlights of Dr. Lewis’ career at the District:

  • Helped establish the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint River Comprehensive Study
  • Coordinated restoration efforts in Tates Hell State Forest
  • Created a hydrodynamic model for Apalachicola Bay
  • Helped launch the Minimum Flows and Minimum Levels program

“I appreciate this recognition, but I also realize so many others who I worked with at the District played a valuable role in our work to help restore and protect the rivers and bays in northwest Florida,” Lewis said. “It is satisfying to see how others have taken the torch and continue working to protect the natural resources in our District.”

Dr. Lewis was presented with a “River and Bay Champion” bowl with a permanent nameplate memorializing his selection as the 2019 winner. The bowl will remain on display at the Northwest Florida Water Management District’s headquarters. He also received a plaque in recognition of the award.

The District previously honored Senator Bill Montford with the 2018 River and Bay Champion award.