For decades, the Montana Wildlife Federation has recognized the contributions of Montanans who make a difference for wildlife, habitat and public access. As part of our 90th anniversary celebration this year, we are inviting ALL of our members to consider submitting a nomination of people they know who make a difference.
Please review the breadth of awards we’ve given below and use this form to submit a nomination today.
Reach out to MWF Board Director Jim Vashro who is leading the awards committee again this year via his email at jsjvash@montanasky.us or contact MWF Executive Director Frank Szollosi at frank@mtwf.org. We welcome email attachments that provide greater context for the nomination.
Awardees, and everyone, are invited to our Annual Meeting May 16th, 2026, which is taking place in Lewistown this year. We also make arrangements to present awards at time and place convenient for awardees.
As an incentive, anyone who submits a nomination by March 16th will be entered into a raffle for one of two $100 Capital Sports of Helena gift certificates.
Use this form to submit a nomination today!
Montana Wildlife Federation Awards
Heritage Award
Special recognition of an individual who has demonstrated an outstanding lifetime of dedication to conserving the wildlife and wild lands and waters of Montana
Conservation Communicator
For outstanding achievement in effectively conveying the natural resource conservation message and creating public awareness of conservation issues in the news media.
Conservation Educator
Individual who has shown outstanding achievement in educating others in natural resource conservation. Education process may be formal or informal of persons at any age level. May be leadership which, by example or demonstration, aids in the natural resource education of others.
Conservation Legislator
The legislator with exceptional achievement and efforts in support of sound natural resource conservation in Montana.
Conservation Organization
The organization which has most effectively promoted natural resource conservation in Montana.
Don Aldrich Conservationist of the Year
The outstanding conservation effort in Montana of an individual for the previous year. Selection will be based on the scope and amount of personal commitment to the conservation of Montana natural resources relevant to the Montana Wildlife Federation.
Fred Carver Sportsman of the Year
The MWF affiliate club member who has contributed most significantly to the promotion of club activities and sportsmen interest.
Les Pengelly Conservation Professional of the Year
This award recognizes wildlife professionals who embody excellence in scientific research, mentorship and community outreach.
MWF Affiliate of the Year
The MWF affiliate club that has contributed most significantly to the promotion of sportsmen’s interests, natural resource conservation and the Mission of MWF.
Outfitter of the Year
Outfitter or outfitting business that provides exemplary services enhancing the public’s ability to equitably enjoy the resources held in common by all people
Special Achievement – Landowner/Sportsmen relations
In special recognition of an individual committed to improved landowner/sportsmen relations.
Special Achievement – Legislative/lobbying
In special recognition of an individual’s outstanding work, dedication and contribution to legislative lobbying efforts that promote the conservation of wildlife, wildlife habitat, and continued public recreational opportunity.
Special Conservation Achievement
Special Conservation Achievement Award
Youth Conservationist
The youth who has demonstrated outstanding ability, leadership, and accomplishments in natural resource conservation. Youth groups working together in a conservation program are also eligible. Limited to youths that have not reached the age of 21 during the contest year.
