North Carolina Wildlife Federation (NCWF) is proud to announce that nominations are now open for the 61st Annual Governor’s Conservation Achievement Awards. This prestigious event, set to take place on May 2, 2026, honors the outstanding individuals, organizations, and agencies whose work is making a lasting impact on the conservation of North Carolina’s wildlife and natural resources.
Each year, NCWF brings together a diverse group of conservation leaders—including wildlife biologists, enforcement officers, educators, foresters, business owners, legislators, and many others—all united in their commitment to preserving North Carolina’s environment. This year’s milestone event will celebrate the exceptional contributions of those who have gone above and beyond to protect wildlife and promote sustainable conservation practices across the state.
Nomination Period: November 17, 2025 – January 31, 2026
NCWF invites the public to submit nominations for conservation leaders who have demonstrated exceptional service in a variety of categories, including:
- Conservationist of the Year
- Wildlife Conservationist of the Year
- Sportsman or Sportswoman of the Year
- Land Conservationist of the Year
- Water Conservationist of the Year
- Forest Conservationist of the Year
- Conservation Organization of the Year
- Legislator of the Year
- Business Conservationist of the Year
- Natural Resources Agency or Scientist of the Year
- Wildlife Volunteer of the Year
- Public Lands Conservationist of the Year
- NCWF Chapter of the Year
- Affiliate of the Year
- Environmental Educator of the Year
- Young Conservationist of the Year
These awards provide a unique opportunity to recognize the outstanding contributions of individuals and groups whose efforts are critical to advancing conservation and environmental education throughout the state.
Celebrate at the Gala Banquet
The awards will be presented at a special gala banquet on May 2, 2026, where attendees will have the chance to celebrate the achievements of this year’s award recipients and hear from conservation leaders about the future of North Carolina’s wildlife and natural resources.
Nominate Now!
To nominate an outstanding conservation leader or organization, visit ncwf.org/governors-conservation-achievement-awards/nominations/. The nomination period runs from November 17, 2025, through January 31, 2026.
Early Bird Registration Now Available
Registration for the 61st Annual Governor’s Conservation Achievement Awards gala is now available at a discounted rate. Don’t miss your chance to attend this landmark event and celebrate the conservation leaders who are helping to shape the future of North Carolina’s wildlife and natural resources. For more information on tickets and event details, visit ncwf.org/governors-conservation-achievement-awards/.
Become A Sponsor
Past sponsors include Duke Energy, NC Electric Cooperatives, Grady-White Boats, and many others. Sponsorship starts at $1,000 and includes multiple benefits to show your support of NC conservation heroes. To see sponsorship benefits, visit ncwf.org/governors-conservation-achievement-awards/.
