Adirondack Watershed Institute Announces Inaugural Adirondack Watershed Impact Award Recipients
AWI recognizes Guy Middleton, Mirror Lake Watershed Association for protecting Adirondack waters
PAUL SMITHS, N.Y. — The Paul Smith’s College Adirondack Watershed Institute (AWI) has selected Guy Middleton, Executive Director of the Upper Saranac Foundation, and the Mirror Lake Watershed Association as the recipients of its inaugural Adirondack Watershed Impact Awards, recognizing exceptional leadership in protecting Adirondack waters.
The awards will be presented during AWI’s inaugural Adirondack Lake Mixer and Awards Celebration on Thursday, September 3, from 5–7 p.m. on the Great Lawn at Paul Smith’s College. The event brings together lake associations, scientists, community leaders, volunteers, and supporters to celebrate the partnerships that help protect the region’s lakes, rivers, and streams.
“The health of Adirondack waters depends on people who take action,” said Maureen Cunningham, Executive Director of the Paul Smith’s College Adirondack Watershed Institute. “Whether they’re monitoring a lake, building partnerships, advocating for solutions, or inspiring others to get involved, individuals like Guy Middleton and organizations like the Mirror Lake Watershed Association show that protecting our waters starts first and foremost with people. We’re honored to recognize the lasting impact of their incredible work.”
Guy Middleton is the Executive Director of the Upper Saranac Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to science-guided stewardship of the Upper Saranac watershed. He has decades of experience in environmental conservation and watershed management, having led one of the nation’s most successful aquatic invasive species management programs. Under his leadership, the Foundation continues to implement innovative approaches to water quality protection, invasive species control, and shoreline conservation. Middleton plays a central role in overseeing long-term monitoring initiatives, directing public education and outreach programs, and ensuring the proper operation and accreditation of the Bartlett Carry dam. He also works closely with partners to promote responsible shoreline and land-use practices that protect the long-term health of the watershed.
“Protecting Upper Saranac Lake has always been a community effort,” said Guy Middleton, Executive Director of the Upper Saranac Foundation. “I’m honored to receive this recognition and grateful to the many volunteers, partners, and supporters who have worked alongside me over the years. This award belongs to everyone who has helped preserve this incredible resource for future generations.”
The Mirror Lake Watershed Association, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and preserving the ecological health of Mirror Lake and its surrounding watershed, was selected for its collaborative, science-based approach to watershed protection. The organization has helped advance stronger stormwater regulations, address road salt pollution through partnerships and volunteer monitoring, and expand aquatic invasive species prevention efforts—demonstrating how local leadership can create lasting benefits for both Mirror Lake and the surrounding watershed.
“This recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects the dedication of so many people who care deeply about Mirror Lake,” said Marcy Fagan, Chair of the Mirror Lake Watershed Association. “Our volunteers, board members, partners, and community have shown what can be accomplished when people come together around a shared purpose. We’re grateful to everyone who has helped protect this special place and honored to receive this award.”
Community members interested in attending the Adirondack Lake Mixer and Awards Celebration to celebrate these watershed leaders can learn more and purchase tickets at: www.adkwatershed.org/events/2026-adk-lake-mixer
Media Contact
Ben Brosseau, Director of Communications
bbrosseau2@paulsmiths.edu
About Paul Smith’s College
At Paul Smith’s College, it’s about the experience. As the only four-year college located in the Adirondack Park in upstate New York, Paul Smith’s provides real-world, hands-on learning in fields such as business and hospitality, culinary management, forestry, environmental sciences and natural resources. We are able to draw on industries and resources available in our own backyard while preparing students for successful careers anywhere. Our community of resourceful, enterprising, supportive and adventurous individuals collectively provide experiential education, student support in the classroom and beyond and meaningful opportunities for our alumni. We pride ourselves on research and advocacy on issues that improve our planet and the lives of the people who inhabit it. Learn more at paulsmiths.edu.
The mission of the Adirondack Watershed Institute is to protect clean water, conserve habitat, and support the health and well-being of the people in the Adirondacks through scientific inquiry, stewardship, and real-world experiences. Learn more at: www.adkwatershed.org