Mike Korkuc, a longtime volunteer who has helped protect and expand loon populations at Lake Dunmore and surrounding lakes for 15 years, has been named the winner of Green Mountain Power's 2022 GMP-Zetterstrom Environmental Award.
The prize is named for former Milton resident Meeri Zetterstrom, who inspired recovery efforts that led to ospreys’ removal from Vermont’s endangered species list. The award is given annually to one person, business, group or nonprofit that has made a significant contribution to Vermont’s environment. The feather-shaped award is accompanied by a $2,500 donation to support the winner’s ongoing efforts.
Korkuc, in collaboration with the Vermont Center for Ecostudies, has saved several loons at Lake Dunmore, Silver Lake and Sugar Hill Reservoir, and has taught hundreds of people about loons and how to protect them. He has volunteered countless hours protecting loons and their Lake Dunmore nesting site and monitors four surrounding lakes.
“No one reminds me more of Meeri Zetterstrom than Mike,” said nominator Joan Gamble. “He volunteers his time freely and passionately to keep the loons safe.”
Korkuc, who knew nothing about loons when he first saw one on Lake Dunmore years ago, quickly became their advocate after he saw a loon family, including a chick, endangered by boat traffic. Thanks to his vision and efforts, loons have successfully hatched and fledged young at the lake for over a decade.
“My photographs of that first chick sparked my new hobby,” Korkuc said. “I’ve since captured over 40,000 photos, most of loons,” he said. “I am so honored by this recognition from GMP, and it inspires me to continue to protect and educate people about loons.”
Korkuc, as Meeri Zetterstrom did with osprey photos, used his pictures to create public interest in the loons and protect them. Over time, he’s developed an email group of more than 450 people he provides with photos and regular updates on the birds’ progress.