Fly Fisherman magazine announced recently the creation of its Conservationist of the Year Award. The award will honor a person whose volunteer work for a conservation organization has helped protect or improve fisheries habitats in the previous year.
The winner will receive $10,000 to donate to the nonprofit conservation organization of his or her choice, as well as a Sage fishing rod inscribed with the winner’s name and “Conservationist of the Year.” He or she will be recognized in Fly Fisherman’s first issue in 2017.
In its announcement of the award, the magazine noted it is looking for volunteers who have given up their time and worked on the ground rather than people who have donated money. The award is meant to honor a volunteer who has spent time working on projects in the field and has been involved at a grassroots level.
A selection committee of nine people will select the winner based on his or her commitment, impact, length of time with the organization and passion.
North Carolina Coastal Federation staff members know many of our dedicated volunteers are worthy of such an award, and we are always thankful for the time and effort volunteers put into our projects.
The magazine is accepting nominations by email or mail through June 30.