Environmental Law Institute - National Wetlands Awards

Arizona landowner John Anthony Sedgwick has collaborated with federal, state, and local partners to restore wetlands on his property. In a state that has lost one-third of its wetlands since the late 1800s, Tony’s wetlands, known as Las Lagunas de Anza, stand out as rare, natural wetlands that are being protected, restored, and enhanced. The site is also significant because it is the first campsite in the United States on the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail. Under Tony’s leadership, the site has been developed into an environmental and historical educational destination for the public. Tony has also inspired local youth to be stewards of the land, speaking with Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, and high school and grade school students about the importance of water in their lives and the critical needs that wetland habitat provides for birds and wildlife.