For Immediate Release
February 25, 2026
UTRCA Honours Recipients of 2026 Conservation Awards
The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 Conservation Awards, recognizing exceptional contributions to community engagement and environmental stewardship.
This year's Outstanding Resident Award was presented posthumously to Diane Irving to honour her many years of volunteer service and commitment to supporting community events.
For nearly 20 years, Diane was a familiar and welcoming presence at the UTRCA's Children's Water Festivals, Celebrating Community Connection events, litter clean-ups, and much more. Known for her warm smile and generous spirit, she went above and beyond – sewing costumes, mending activity materials, and ensuring every detail was ready to help create memorable experiences for the children.
"She made connections, brought positive energy, and carried a quiet joy in everything she did. Whether she was volunteering in classrooms, leading community initiatives, or supporting environmental programs, she believed deeply in being part of something bigger than herself," shared Linda Smith, daughter of Diane Irving and Community Partnerships Specialist with the UTRCA.
"All of Diane's efforts, all her activities, and her wonderful spirit will continue to be felt at our future events," said Teresa Hollingsworth, Manager, Community and Corporate Services, UTRCA.
The Kayla Berger Stewardship Award was presented to Bill and Cecilia Davies in recognition of their decades of tree planting through the UTRCA's Tree Planting on Private Lands program. The Davies have purchased trees for their rural property nearly every year since 1987, missing only one spring planting season. They like to plant the trees themselves, contributing to local reforestation efforts, creating habitat, and supporting watershed health.
"Over the years, Bill and Cecilia have planted more than 4,500 trees on their property," said Brenda Gallagher, UTRCA's Forestry Technician. "Through their hard work and dedication, they have left a legacy for future generations."
"Planting trees is like therapy. You plant them, and then you see them leaf out, and they grow. And then 30 or 40 years later, you have this magnificent tree on your property. I think it's been good for us," shared Bill Davies.
The Conservation Awards were presented at the UTRCA's Annual General Meeting on February 24, 2026, at the Watershed Conservation Centre. Short tribute videos highlighting the award recipients' contributions were shown at the meeting and are available online at: Outstanding Resident Award and Kayla Berger Stewardship Award.
Left to right: Karlee Flear (UTRCA, nominator); Tracy Annett (UTRCA, General Manager); Sarah Travnicek, Linda Smith, and Rob Irving (Outstanding Resident Award recipients on behalf of Diane Irving); UTRCA Vice Chair Dean Trentowsky (Deputy Mayor, Municipality of West Perth); UTRCA Chair Brian Petrie (Mayor, Town of Ingersoll)
Left to right: Brenda Gallagher (UTRCA, nominator); Cecilia and Bill Davies (Kayla Berger Stewardship Award recipients); Dave and Wendy Berger (parents of Kayla Berger)
Contact:
Amy Bumbacco,
Communications and Marketing Specialist,
Upper Thames River Conservation Authority