Newport, VT — The Memphremagog Watershed Association (MWA) is proud to celebrate three members of our team whose dedication to their communities and to watershed stewardship has been honored in meaningful and well-deserved ways.

Board Member Farley Brown Honored with 2025 Municipal Service Award

MWA is delighted to celebrate Farley Brown of Craftsbury, one of our dedicated Board members, who has been recognized with the 2025 Municipal Service Award from the Vermont League of Cities & Towns. Farley has spent over twenty years serving her community, contributing her knowledge, energy, and heart to both the Planning Commission and Conservation Commission. She has played a vital role in shaping Craftsbury’s Town Plans, Village Center Designations, and long-term planning efforts, always bringing a thoughtful, grounded perspective. Beyond the town, Farley lends her expertise to the NVDA Board of Directors, helping guide regional initiatives with care and vision. As a professor at Sterling College, she creatively integrates students and college programs into local projects, strengthening the bond between education, the environment, and community. Farley’s dedication, curiosity, and generosity make her an inspiring example of service in action, and we are thrilled to celebrate her well-earned recognition.

Board Member Beth Torpey Recognized for 25 Years of Service to Seymour Lake Association

MWA is also proud to honor Beth Torpey, longtime MWA Board member, who recently celebrated 25 years of service with the Seymour Lake Association. Beth received a heartfelt letter of commendation from Vermont Governor Phil Scott, acknowledging her decades of leadership, scientific expertise, and commitment to protecting Seymour Lake and its surrounding communities.
In the letter, dated June 23rd, 2025, the Governor praised Beth for her steady leadership since the Association’s inception and for the professional, science-based approach she has brought to preserving the lake’s native species and ecological integrity. Her contributions were further recognized at the Seymour Lake Association’s Annual Meeting, where she was honored by the community and presented with a painting of Seymour Lake—a tribute to her lasting impact on the place she has worked so hard to protect.
Beth’s dedication exemplifies the powerful stewardship that strengthens our watershed and inspires others to care for the waters they love.

Staff Member Patrick Hurley Recognized with “One Town” Community Service Award

MWA is equally proud to celebrate Patrick Hurley, our Project Manager, who was honored at the “One Town” Community Service Awards Gala in October, hosted by Jay Peak Resort. This annual celebration recognizes individuals across the Northeast Kingdom who dedicate their time, talent, and heart to strengthening their communities. Patrick’s leadership in watershed restoration, volunteer engagement, and community outreach has made a meaningful difference for the Memphremagog watershed and the people who live within it. At MWA, Patrick’s commitment to hands-on projects, education, and stewardship reflects our mission in action, and we are thrilled to see his efforts recognized alongside other outstanding community leaders.

“We’re so proud to celebrate Farley, Beth, and Patrick—and all the ways they give back to our communities and the watershed we love,” said Tom Latta, MWA Board President. “Working with them is inspiring every day. Their passion, dedication, and care for the people and places around them truly make a difference, and we’re lucky to have them as part of the MWA family.”