Keep Wakulla County Beautiful (KWCB) recently hosted its 2026 Environmental Awards Banquet on July 7, 2026, at the Wakulla Community Center, bringing together community leaders, volunteers, businesses, educators, and environmental advocates for an evening of celebration, recognition, and patriotism.
This year’s banquet embraced the theme “Just Imagine” while commemorating America’s 250th Birthday, recognizing the local individuals and organizations whose dedication is helping build a cleaner, greener future for Wakulla County.
Guests enjoyed an evening filled with fellowship, great food, and fun while also putting their knowledge to the test during an interactive Kahoot! trivia game. Participants answered questions about America’s environmental history over the past 250 years, conservation milestones, and Wakulla County’s own unique natural resources, adding an educational and entertaining element to the celebration.
In keeping with KWCB’s mission to reduce waste and promote sustainability, dinner was served using environmentally friendly dinnerware, reusable aluminum souvenir cups, and reusable bamboo utensils, demonstrating that even special events can minimize their environmental footprint.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2026 Environmental Awards, honoring those who have gone above and beyond to protect and enhance Wakulla County’s natural beauty.
2026 Keep Wakulla County Beautiful Award Winners
Adopt-A-Road of the Year
- COABI
Business or Neighborhood “Community Pride” Award
- Heather Rybak / Rybak Realty
“Community Roots” Civic Organization Award
- Sarracenia Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society
“Green Trailblazer” Youth or Youth Group Volunteer Award
- John Alex Edwards
“Don Henderson” Award
- JoAnn Palmer
Eco-Friendly Classroom Award
- UF/IFAS Extension Wakulla County
“Heart of Service” Award
- Marquetta Cowley
“Wakulla Eco-Excellence” (Eco-Tourism) Award
- Gabrielle Gabrielli
“Waste Wise” Waste Reduction Award
- Trident Restaurant
Volunteer of the Year – “Golden Vest” Award
- Ashlee Barton
In addition to recognizing award recipients, attendees participated in a silent auction that raised funds to support KWCB’s environmental education, beautification, litter prevention, recycling, and conservation programs throughout Wakulla County.
The people we honored represent the very best of our community from volunteers and educators to local businesses and nonprofit organizations, each winner demonstrates that positive change begins with individuals who are willing to invest their time and talents in protecting the place we all call home.
As America celebrates 250 years of independence, KWCB encouraged guests to reflect not only on our nation’s history, but also on the responsibility each generation shares in protecting our natural resources for the future.
The evening concluded with a reminder that the work of preserving Wakulla County is a year-round effort made possible through dedicated volunteers, community partnerships, and citizens who believe that small actions can make a lasting difference.
Keep Wakulla County Beautiful extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who attended, donated auction items, sponsored the event, volunteered their time, and helped make the evening a success.
After all, Just Imagine what we can accomplish together.
