City Division claims OWEA award for excellence in sustainability

The City of Norman’s Division of Environmental Resilience and Sustainability (DoERS) has been honored with the Oklahoma Water Environment Association’s (OWEA) Environmental Sustainability Award. This prestigious recognition marks the division’s third major accolade in under a year, reinforcing its commitment to innovative and impactful environmental initiatives. Presented at the First Annual OWEA Awards Luncheon on 1/24/25 in Oklahoma City, the award acknowledges organizations that demonstrate outstanding leadership in sustainability across Oklahoma.

“Our mission is to protect public health, safeguard natural resources, and advance sustainability in Norman,” said Michele Loudenback, DoERS’ Environmental and Sustainability Manager. “Through strategic initiatives and collaboration, we are dedicated to implementing meaningful solutions for a more resilient future.”

DoERS oversees a diverse portfolio of programs designed to enhance environmental stewardship and sustainability in Norman, including:

  • Stormwater & Water Quality Programs – Ensuring clean and safe water for the community. 
  • Electronics Waste Collection – Providing responsible disposal options for outdated electronics. 
  • Norman Solar Initiative – Encouraging the adoption of solar energy solutions. 
  • Blue Neighborhood Pilot Project – Implementing nature-based solutions to support watershed health. 
  • Pollinator Habitat & Education Workshops – Promoting biodiversity and ecological awareness. 
  • Rain Barrel Promotions – Supporting water conservation efforts. 
  • Community Cleanup Events – Engaging residents in environmental restoration activities. 
  • GreenNorman.org – Serving as a centralized resource for sustainability information and education. 

Loudenback emphasized the team’s dedication to innovation and collaboration. “We continuously seek creative, research-driven solutions to address Norman’s environmental challenges. Our team’s passion and expertise drive our success.”

This latest achievement follows two recent awards from the Oklahoma Floodplain Managers Association (OFMA). Earlier this year, Environmental Programs Supervisor Michelle Chao was named Stormwater Innovator of the Year, while DoERS’ Blue Neighborhood Initiative received the Ron Flanagan Gold Project Award.

“Our team is committed to making a lasting impact,” Loudenback added. “Through collaboration and forward-thinking strategies, we are shaping a cleaner, greener Norman for future generations.”

For more information on DoERS programs and initiatives, visit GreenNorman.org.

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