Musto has authored some of Pennsylvania’s landmark environmental legislation, including the state’s curbside recycling program, which is the largest in the country.

Joan Clippinger, executive director of the federation, said Musto’s strength was championing environmental causes in a bipartisan manner. "Senator Musto works effectively to get things done in Harrisburg," she said. "It was this type of leadership we were looking for in presenting the award."

Each year the federation honors outstanding individuals and organizations throughout the commonwealth for significant contributions to conservation. The honorees are chosen by a select panel of conservationists.

The awards will be presented at the annual banquet of the federation, which will be conducted April 18 at the Eden Resort, Lancaster.

"I’m honored to get this recognition from such a prestigious organization," Senator Musto said. "I’ve always strived to preserve our natural resources. We must leave a better world for our children and grandchildren."

Musto, who represents the 14th Senatorial District, is Democratic chairman of the senate’s Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. He is considered the senate’s expert on environmental issues.

The lawmaker has sponsored numerous pieces of legislation, including Clean Air amendments; the hazardous materials program; and a statewide environmental education program for school students. In addition, he co-sponsored the Land Recycling Act, which has won national awards.

Senator Musto is one of the architects of the "Growing Greener" plan, which will invest nearly $650 million in Pennsylvania’s environment over the next five years.

A former state representative who also served briefly in U.S. Congress, Musto was elected to the senate in 1982. He was re-elected in 1986, 1990, 1994 and 1998.

The federation’s mission is to educate Pennsylvanians about the environment and to protect, preserve and nurture the state’s natural resources.