It is a controversial contaminate that has made thousands of Valley citizens think before they drink. Now, one local organization is honoring those who brought the issue to the surface.

Ohio Citizen Action held its 11th annual Howard Metzenbaum award ceremony Saturday afternoon.

The ceremony recognizes local grassroots leaders who dedicate their lives to protect residents living in the Mid-Ohio Valley.

Pageville's Debra Cochran was this years honoree.

Cochran has spent the past five years informing the public about the harmful effects of the chemical C8 in our drinking water.

"Personally I believe C8 is one of the most toxic chemicals we have ever seen to date. There are some known cancers associated with it and because of the fact that it was effecting so many thousand of people I wanted to do something about it," says Cochran.

Journalist Callie Lyons and Little Hocking Water Association General Manager Bob Griffin were also recognized for their outstanding work at Saturdays award ceremony.