The Montana Wildlife Federation (MWF) is inviting nominations for its annual conservation awards as part of its 90th anniversary celebration. The organization, which operates statewide and is based in Helena, recognizes individuals and groups who have made significant contributions to wildlife, habitat, and public access across Montana.
MWF serves hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts while advancing ethical hunting and fishing practices. It seeks to protect wildlife, habitats, and the traditions of hunting and angling. The group also promotes public access to lands and supports science-based wildlife management throughout Montana. More information about MWF’s mission can be found on its official website.
Members are encouraged to submit nominations for a range of awards that highlight achievements in conservation communication, education, legislation, professional work, youth leadership, landowner relations, lobbying efforts, outfitting services, club activities, and special conservation accomplishments. Awardees will be honored at the Annual Meeting scheduled for May 16th in Lewistown or at another convenient time.
Jim Vashro leads the awards committee this year. He can be contacted via email at jsjvash@montanasky.us. MWF Executive Director Frank Szollosi is also available at frank@mtwf.org for further information or nomination submissions.
Anyone submitting a nomination by March 16th will be entered into a raffle for one of two $100 Capital Sports of Helena gift certificates.
Award categories include:
– Heritage Award: For lifetime dedication to conserving Montana’s wildlife and wild places.
– Conservation Communicator: For achievement in raising awareness through media.
– Conservation Educator: For outstanding education efforts in natural resource conservation.
– Conservation Legislator: For legislative support of sound conservation practices.
– Conservation Organization: For organizational promotion of resource conservation.
– Don Aldrich Conservationist of the Year: For individual commitment over the past year.
– Fred Carver Sportsman of the Year: For club members promoting sportsmen interests.
– Les Pengelly Conservation Professional of the Year: For excellence among wildlife professionals.
– MWF Affiliate of the Year: For affiliate clubs supporting sportsmen’s interests and MWF’s mission.
– Outfitter of the Year: For outfitters enhancing equitable enjoyment of resources.
– Special Achievement Awards: Recognizing work in landowner/sportsmen relations or legislative/lobbying efforts.
– Youth Conservationist: For youths under 21 showing leadership in conservation.
According to MWF’s official website, it was established by outdoor enthusiasts with a focus on safeguarding fish, wildlife, habitats, public land access and promoting evidence-driven care along with ethical outdoor practices.
Jeff Lukas serves as MWF’s Conservation Director. “Whether it’s floating a small stream chasing trout, pursuing elk in the high country, or waiting in a blind for ducks to set their wings,” Lukas said,“Jeff is always trying to bring more people afield to show them what we are trying to protect. He loves being in the arena,and he will never shy away from conversations about the beautiful and unique corners of Big Sky country.”
Donations are welcomed by MWF to support ongoing work conserving Montana’s wildlife resources for current and future generations.
