The Atwood Award is named in honor of Seth B. Atwood, the late industrialist who preserved and donated more than 1,000 acres of valuable land for the citizens of Winnebago County. The award is presented by the Rockford Park District, the Rockford Park District Foundation and the Winnebago County Forest Preserve District. To date, 34 recipients have received this award which recognizes individuals and organizations for their exceptional volunteer contributions to facilities, programs or services which preserve natural areas and park spaces, or provide recreation and education.

Nominations for this year's award are no longer being accepted.

The 2010 Atwood Award will be presented as part of the City of Gardens Spring Kick-Off event on April 14, 2010 at 5 pm at Cliffbreakers. The award recipients are Anne Meyer and Hoo Haven/Karen and Steven Herdklotz. To RSVP for the event, please contact Ruth Miller at ruthmiller@rockfordparkdistrict.org or Judy Roby at 815-987-8695 or judyroby@rockfordparkdistrict.org.