North Carolina Wildlife Federation (NCWF) celebrated outstanding conservation efforts across the state at the 61st Annual Governor’s Conservation Achievement Awards ceremony, held on May 2, 2026.
The event recognized individuals and organizations whose dedication to preserving North Carolina’s natural resources has made a lasting impact on the state’s wildlife and wildlife habitat.
The awardees, representing a diverse range of environmental fields, were honored for their contributions in conservation science, wildlife management, land conservation, environmental education, and more.
Recipients included:
- Conservation Hall of Fame – Katherine Skinner (Durham)
- Conservationist of the Year – Senator Bill Rabon (Winnabow)
- Wildlife Conservationist of the Year – Curtis Smalling (Garner)
- Sportsman of the Year – Sandy Brady (Reidsville)
- Land Conservationist of the Year – The Futral Family (Richlands)
- Forest Conservationist of the Year – Julie H. Moore (Raleigh)
- Marine Resource Conservationist of the Year – Joan Maxwell (Edenton)
- Young Conservationist of the Year – Celia Kaul (Charlotte)
- Environmental Educator of the Year – Abby Weinshenker (Concord)
- Conservation Organization of the Year – North Carolina Coastal Land Trust
- Natural Resources Agency of the Year – North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
- Business Conservationist of the Year – Raven Invasive Plant Management (Asheville)
- Natural Resources Scientist of the Year – Dr. Arthur Bogan (Raleigh)
- Wildlife Volunteer of the Year – Dennis Ward (Hickory)
- Public Lands Conservationist of the Year – Blue Ridge Guide Association
- NCWF Chapter of the Year – Lake Norman Wildlife (Mooresville)
- Wildlife Enforcement Officer of the Year – Officer William “Thomas” Weaver (Lawndale)
- Marine Patrol Officer of the Year – Officer Jonathan Price (Jamesville)
NCWF recognized these remarkable individuals and groups for their tireless efforts to preserve North Carolina’s natural heritage. From the fields of science to community engagement, these awardees exemplify the spirit of conservation in our state.
“Tonight we celebrate people who push the limits, broaden our understanding of this state we love, and remind us that even in difficult times, hope is still in our hands – and we are never standing alone,” said ceremony emcee and awards chair T Edward Nickens. “In one hand, the challenges we face. In the other, the people in this room – proving that hope is alive, action is possible, and none of us stands alone when we stand up for conservation.”
