Group honors climate change solutions

Climate Smart Glacier Country is looking for businesses, youth and individuals who are creating local solutions to the challenges posed by climate change.

The group plans to honor these individuals through its Climate Smart Champion Awards, which they hope to make an annual event.

Nominations from across Flathead County are being accepted through March 24 and winners will be announced at the Flathead Earth Day Celebration on April 22.

Matt Folz, chairman of the Climate Smart’s green business working group, says the awards program celebrates local stories about sustainable practices in schools, businesses and communities.

“It’s impressive how many great things already are happening in the Flathead,” said Folz, who works as Director of Sustainability at Glacier National Park Lodges.

The partnership will recognize Climate Smart Champions in three categories: youth, business and individual leader. The youth category may include student groups or individuals. Nomination forms are available at climatesmartglaciercountry.org.

The 2017 Champions will be announced on April 22 at the Flathead Earth Day Celebration at Whitefish Middle School from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.