The National Wildlife Federation has presented Edmonds resident Laura Spehar, leader of the Edmonds Certified Community Wildlife Habitat Team, with its Conservation Service Award.

The award, presented Feb. 5 at the Woodland Park Zoo, recognizes Spehar’s efforts as an exceptional community member and volunteer. “The energy, enthusiasm and commitment that Laura brings to our conservation community inspires others,” the Wildlife Federation said in a news release. “We are very proud to have her as a part of our organization.”

A teacher and environmental educator, Spehar has an impressive list of volunteer credentials that includes work as a certified WSU Master Gardener, Beach Watcher and Shore Steward, a Certified Washington Native Plant Society Steward & Growing Wild Consultant, a Certified National Wildlife Federation Habitat Steward & Host, a Certified WSU Rain Garden Consultant, a Certified Frog Watch U.S.A Trainer through the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, an Edmonds Seal Sitter volunteer, a City of Edmonds Beach Naturalist, and a Puget Sound Birdfest board member. Spehar also serves on the Edmonds Mayor’s Climate Protection Committee, and is on the board of the Just Frogs, Toads Too Foundation, Puget Sound Birdfest, Friends of the Edmonds Marsh, the Willow Creek Hatchery Wildlife Habitat & Native Plant Demonstration Garden and Friends of the Edmonds Library.