Margaret Mead famously said “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” Across the San Juan Islands, it’s that time of year when we recognize local changemakers — those individuals, educators and businesses who have created or maintained a commitment to protecting the land and sea with a Finnie!

It might be award season, but the Oscars have nothing on the Finnies. Know someone who deserves to walk the stewardship red carpet? Nominate them for a Good Steward Award! The categories aren’t Best Actor or Picture, but rather Youth, Individual, Educator and Business.

Since 2008, the Good Steward Awards, affectionately known as “Finnies,” have been sponsored by the Stewardship Network of the San Juans in recognition of individuals, families, teachers, students and businesses who are not conservation professionals and who have shown long-term dedication to preserving the land and sea of the San Juan archipelago in their daily lives. Award recipients will be presented with large wooden “Finnies,” locally handcrafted fish-shaped creations. Award presentations will be in April, as the slands celebrate Earth Day.

Submit nominations at www.stewardshipsanjuans.org/good-steward-awards. Nominations are due by March 30.