Liz Crafford Recognition Resolution of 2026

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A CEREMONIAL RESOLUTION

26-139

IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

March 31, 2026

To recognize, honor, and celebrate Liz Crafford for her leadership, volunteerism, and dedication
to protecting and restoring the natural environment in the District of Columbia.

WHEREAS, Liz Crafford has been a dedicated advocate for environmental stewardship
and the protection of the District of Columbia’s natural spaces;

WHEREAS, Liz Crafford was instrumental in the drafting and introduction of the Office
of Natural Area Conservation Establishment Act of 2023 (Bill 25-0487), legislation introduced
in September 2023 to establish an Office of Natural Area Conservation within the Department of
Energy and Environment to help manage and protect the District’s forested natural areas and
forest patches;

WHEREAS, the legislation aims to strengthen the District’s ability to promote native
plants, address invasive species, and support community engagement in caring for forested
natural areas across the city;

WHEREAS, Liz Crafford testified before the Council of the District of Columbia
multiple times in support of protecting the District’s natural areas and improving stewardship of
forested land;

WHEREAS, Liz Crafford leads the Shepherd Park Weed Warriors, a volunteer effort
founded in 2021 that works with the Department of Parks and Recreation and community
partners to remove invasive plants, restore native vegetation, and protect the hillside next to
Shepherd Elementary School’s soccer field;

WHEREAS, through the Shepherd Park Weed Warriors, Liz Crafford has helped train
residents to identify and remove invasive species while promoting native plants and
strengthening environmental stewardship within the Ward 4 community;

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WHEREAS, Liz Crafford has also been a strong advocate for improved park
maintenance, including pressing District agencies to improve early notification and response
when trash and recycling receptacles overflow in neighborhood parks;

WHEREAS, Liz Crafford’s identification of problems with the City's solid waste
collection system helped shape an oversight priority that the Council continues to pursue;

WHEREAS, Liz Crafford lives her values through her commitment to ecological
stewardship and by promoting natural habitats and native plant ecosystems within her own
community; and

WHEREAS, Liz Crafford’s leadership, advocacy, and volunteer service have
strengthened environmental stewardship in Ward 4 and across the District of Columbia.

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this
resolution may be cited as the “Liz Crafford Recognition Resolution of 2026”.

Sec. 2. The Council of the District of Columbia recognizes and honors Liz Crafford for
her outstanding volunteer leadership and dedication to protecting the District’s natural
environment.

Sec. 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately.