The Virginia Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts has named State Delegate Steve Shannon Legislator of the Year  in recognition of his commitment to conservation and environmentalism while serving the Virginia General Assembly.

Earlier this year, Shannon was the chief sponsor of legislation that provided localities with a means of enforcing erosion and sediment control laws. Since enactment of the law in July, the measure has drawn praise from government officials and environmental groups for significantly aiding the fight to arrest the spread of pollutants and contaminants into the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

The Virginia Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts is a private nonprofit association of 47 soil and water conservation districts in Virginia. It provides and promotes leadership in the conservation of natural resources through stewardship and education programs.