Hampshire environmental stewards recognized for commitment to environmental protection and community leadership
HAMPTON, NH (June 23, 2026) – On Thursday, June 18, 2026, Aquarion Water Company hosted its 13th Annual Environmental Champions Award Ceremony at the Seacoast Science Center in Odiorne Point State Park. This special event honored select organizations and individuals who exemplify an unwavering commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Each year, Aquarion selects a business, a non-profit organization, and an adult to receive a $5,000 grant to support an environmental non-profit of their choice. The company also selects a student to receive a $1,000 award. All winners earn a plaque and statewide recognition for their environmental leadership.
“Every winner here today has proven themselves as Environmental Champions through their passion for the local ecosystem and dedication to preserving New Hampshire’s natural resources,” said Carl McMorran, New Hampshire Operations Manager at Aquarion Water Company. “As an environmental steward and community member, Aquarion is proud to recognize these winners, not only for their advocacy but also for inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. We look forward to seeing how this year’s Environmental Champions continue in their environmental protection efforts.”
The winners of the 2026 Aquarion Environmental Champion Awards are:
PHOTO (left to right): Jen Kennedy, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Blue Ocean Society; Nicole Carrier, Co-founder and President of Throwback Brewery; and George Logan, Director of Community Relations at Aquarion Water Company.
Throwback Brewery – North Hampton, NH (Business)
Throwback Brewery is a locally sourced, sustainable brewery whose vision is to create beer made with 100% local ingredients and be enjoyed across New England. The brewery’s founders, Nicole Carrier and Annette Lee, are dedicated to environmental responsibility, and a few of their sustainability initiatives include community outreach, waste reduction, and the implementation of water-saving techniques in brewing and reusing water. Throwback Brewery is the largest solar-powered brewery in New Hampshire, generating electricity and employing energy-efficient brewing processes. All restaurant food waste and spent grains are composted and recycled, and beer is packaged in cans rather than glass bottles, using recyclable materials. The brewery also regularly partners with nonprofits and local clubs to coordinate Science Cafes and summer kick-off parties, promoting sustainability awareness in its community.
PHOTO (left to right): Phil Wilson, Co-chair of the North Hampton Fever program and current member of the Planning Board; Rich Clyborne, Executive Director at the Gundalow Company; Amanda Komarek, Program Manager at the Gundalow Company; and Carl McMorran, New Hampshire Operations Manager at Aquarion Water Company.
Gundalow Company – Portsmouth, NH (Non-Profit)
The Gundalow Company is dedicated to protecting the Piscataqua region’s maritime heritage through education and action. The organization offers students a unique opportunity to experience the watershed by inviting them aboard a reproduction of a 19th-century Piscataqua gundalow, a flat-bottomed cargo vessel used to navigate the rivers and bays of coastal New England. On board, participants journey through Portsmouth harbor and learn about local maritime history, marine science, navigation, and the importance of preserving natural resources. In 2025 alone, the Gundalow Company welcomed 1,640 students and 600 passengers, including veterans, individuals with disabilities, and underserved youth, to participate in the experience. By providing accessible opportunities to participate in environmental conservation, the Gundalow Company is preparing the next generation of river and bay stewards and ensuring local resources remain protected.
PHOTO (left to right): Chris Bushway, member of Aquarion’s Customer Advisory Group; Lisa Wilson (Accepting for Andrew Vorkink); and Christine Domingos, Aquarion Customer Service Representative.
Andrew Vorkink – North Hampton, NH (Adult)
Andrew Vorkink is a leader in land conservation, trail development, and wetland protection. Since joining the North Hampton Conservation Commission in 2015, Andrew has led initiatives to educate the public about the importance of preserving the town's water supplies and natural resources. He has also led several key land acquisitions, including an innovative land swap to connect a 24-acre landlocked parcel to the town's trail network. As a result of his efforts, the Commission was awarded a $26,000 federal grant to construct the 1.4-mile Oliver Brook Trail, providing education to residents about the benefits of wetlands. His work as a member and Chair of the North Hampton Conservation Easement Subcommittee ensures that future generations continue to protect and enjoy the region’s land, water, and natural heritage.
PHOTO (left to right): Angela Bowen, School Guidance Counselor at Hampton Academy; Anna Doherty; and Peter Fazekas, Director of Corporate Communications at Aquarion Water Company.
Anna Doherty – Hampton, NH (Student)
Anna Doherty, a high school senior from Hampton, is an accomplished researcher, avid volunteer, and passionate advocate for marine life. What began as volunteer work through the Blue Ocean Society for Marine Conservation evolved into an internship as a peer educator, where Anna educated visitors on marine species and coastal ecosystems. She was later selected as the first coral researcher at the Governor’s Academy at the Alfond Coastal Research Center and recently authored and published a children’s book called My Blue Ocean. Proceeds from the book raise funds for non-profits dedicated to marine conservation. Finally, Anna frequently leads book readings and educational talks to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards. This fall, Anna will attend the University of Miami to major in Oceanography.
To learn more about Aquarion’s 2026 Environmental Champion Award winners, please visit www.aquarionwater.com/awards.
PHOTO (left to right): Nicole Carrier, co-founder and President of Throwback Brewery; Anna Doherty; Annette Lee, co-founder and Head Brewer of Throwback Brewery; Amanda Komarek, Program Manager for the Gundalow Company; Rich Clyborne, Executive Director for the Gundalow Company; and Lisa Wilson, (accepting for Andrew Vorkink).