Mike Meetz, an Iowa State veterinary scientist, was presented with the Olav Smedal Conservation Award on March 2.

Meetz said he believes the award was presented to him because of his voluntary work, which stems from a passion for the environment.

Environmental organizations “benefit people for not only their physical gratification, but also with their mental health,” Meetz said.

He also said helping the environment ensures “less stress in life.”

Land conservation is one environmental issue that is dear to Meetz’s heart.

“[People] have lost so much natural habitat, we need to try and keep what we have,” he said.

This is one of the main reasons that Meetz contributes much of his spare time to voluntary work, which includes past involvement with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and the Story County Conservation Board.

He also has worked closely with the Ames Izaak Walton League, an organization concerned with the well-being of the environment, focusing on clean air and soil.

Meetz said he has always had an interest in environmental issues and has been working with such organizations since his junior and senior year in high school.

“I have always had an interest in nature as a young boy,” he said.

Ed Powell, chairman of the award committee, explained that the award was given for excellence and for conservation activities.

He said Meetz is an appropriate choice for the honor.

“Meetz has been involved in a number of activities,” he said.

Meetz also served on the committee of the Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) and participated in a census program for the National Park Service.

“I have been involved in a project concerning the common loon,” he said. “I helped census count the population in Isle Royale National Park.”

The award originally was presented by the Ames Tribune and was sponsored partially by the Ames Izaak Walton League.