Efforts to restore and conserve five important natural and historic sites in Virginia, Florida, Texas, Oregon and Maine are honored this year with Phoenix Awards from the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW).

The annual awards, given since 1969, are to recognize individuals or organizations actively involved in conservation, preservation, beautification and anti-pollution campaigns that further the growth and appeal of North American travel destinations.

Here's a list of the five Phoenix Award winners and why they won. Thanks to Rich Grant of VisitDenver for providing the list of award winners.