3.18.2008 - 03:30pm ET

(CSRwire) FREEPORT, TX - March 18, 2008 - Jan and Roy Edwards felt their river was dying, which was affecting their local community. When they decided to do something about it, they not only made a difference in the river, they contributed to a more sustainable community and a better quality of life for thousands of local residents.

The Edwards were recently recognized for their efforts as the winners of the first-ever Community Catalyst Contest hosted by Smithsonian magazine and presented by Dow. In line with the spirit of the Human Element, the Community Catalyst Contest was created to highlight individuals who develop initiatives that fundamentally change lives. More than 200 entries were received and were judged on innovation, community improvement, inspirational impact and renewable commitment over time.

The Edwards were nominated for their work in helping to found the Friends of the River San Bernard (F.O.R.), a non-profit organization in Southern Brazoria County, Texas, near Dow's Texas Operations site in Freeport.

The mouth of the San Bernard River, nicknamed "The Singing River," was clogged with sand, and the community along the river banks was suffering. The Edwards worked with other members of the original organizing committee to rally friends and neighbors along the river to form F.O.R. and worked to raise awareness of the river's plight. They succeeded in lobbying the US Army Corps of Engineers to open the mouth of the river and are now turning their energy to developing environmental education programs for youth and other river-users.

"I was so surprised when I got the call from the Smithsonian magazine to say we'd won," said Jan Edwards. "We set out to restore, protect, promote and ensure a clean, healthy, flowing San Bernard River for the enjoyment of present and future generations. We never expected to win anything for it."

Not only will the San Bernard River "sing" again, but Brazoria County will also experience many long-term benefits as a result from the Edwards' efforts. According to a local newspaper, "businesses and communities along the river that were dying will be rejuvenated, animal and plant life will flourish and area residents will see their quality of life and recreational opportunities expand."

"Dow is very proud to recognize Roy and Jan Edwards for their tremendous commitment to the sustainability of the local environment and to the long-term success of their communities," said Patti Temple Rocks, Dow vice president, Global Public Affairs. "They are perfect examples of how individuals - the Human Element - can be positive catalysts for change in society."

As true Community Catalysts, the Edwards even donated their $1,000 cash prize to build picnic tables for the F.O.R. Community Center.

Roy and Jan Edwards will be honored in Smithsonian magazine's April 2008 issue alongside a Dow Human Element advertisement. To learn more about the Friends of the River San Bernard, visit their website.

About Dow

With annual sales of $54 billion and 46,000 employees worldwide, Dow is a diversified chemical company that combines the power of science and technology with the "Human Element" to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. The Company delivers a broad range of products and services to customers in around 160 countries, connecting chemistry and innovation with the principles of sustainability to help provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. References to "Dow" or the "Company" mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted.

For more information please contact: