For years, if something ended up at the bottom of Lake Cochichewick, chances are Peter Boynton helped pull it out.

From sunken boats and abandoned docks to old tires, the former North Andover harbormaster spent a decade helping protect the town's drinking water supply. This fall, he'll be recognized for that work with the North Andover Historical Society's 2026 Lifetime Preservation Award.

Boynton will receive the honor during a ceremony on Thursday, Sept. 10, at the North Andover Country Club.

A North Andover High School graduate, Boynton returned to his hometown after serving as a U.S. Coast Guard officer. Over the years, he has become one of the community's most active conservation volunteers.

As harbormaster, he launched the town's annual Lake Cleanup Day, created public boat racks, updated lake-use rules, and helped install floating loon nesting platforms to protect local wildlife.

His work extended well beyond the shoreline. Boynton served 12 years on the Planning Board, helped preserve public use of the former Printing Museum site, advocated for updates to the town's Lake Cochichewick Watershed Management Plan, and recently worked on improvements to the North Boat Launch.

The Historical Society's Lifetime Preservation Award, first presented in 2014, recognizes residents who have made lasting contributions to preserving North Andover's history, natural resources and open spaces. Last year's event raised nearly $38,000 to support the society's programs.

Tickets and sponsorships for the Sept. 10 ceremony are available through the North Andover Historical Society.