Northern Michigan conservation leader wins national award

Zach Peklo, program coordinator for the North Country Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area, has been named the recipient of the Rita Beard Visionary Leadership Award by the North American Invasive Species Management Association. The continental-level honor recognizes early-career conservation professionals who demonstrate exceptional innovation and science-based leadership in protecting natural resources.

Peklo, who assumed leadership of the Cadillac-based nonprofit in March 2024, oversees invasive species management across six Northern Michigan counties. Under his direction, the organization treated over 623 acres of invasive infestations in 2025 and launched a self-sustaining cost-share program to fund regional treatment crews independently of federal grants.

The award presentation took place at the North American Invasive Species Management Association’s annual continental conference this month. Peklo’s team will continue local restoration efforts and municipal partnerships throughout the region into the 2027 field season.

Read the full story at shorelinemedia.net.