Meet our May 2000 (and first) Earth Hero!

People and organizations make a difference in keeping our natural environment beautiful and protected. This cannot be understated. As part of the Earth Legacy Program, we will recognize individuals and groups monthly who continue to make important contributions to our mother earth.

Our first Earth Hero, Jim Ellis, was recognized on April 18, 2000 at Cougar Mountain Regional Wildlife Park.

Jim Ellis, our first Earth Hero
Widely referred to as "the father of Metro", the sewer agency that is responsible for cleaning up Lake Washington with efforts beginning in the 1950's, to today, as the creator of the Mountains to Sound Greenway effort, Jim Ellis was named the first King County Earth Hero.

Mr. Ellis is a pioneer in his efforts to preserve and protect our environment. His work has enhanced the downtown corridor by connecting our neighborhoods, creating urban parks, and activity centers. Under his leadership, the Forward Thrust Program secured authorization for the King Dome, marine aquarium, Freeway Park, Waterfront Park, Luther Burbank and Marymoor Park and other major improvements.

Mr. Ellis has received numerous of awards and honors for his commitment to serving the community, improving quality of life, retaining the vibrancy of our cities, and protecting the beauty of the environment.

We honor Jim Ellis as King County's Earth Hero and for the lasting legacy he had left the people of this region.

» Read the related news release