North Carolina Wildlife Federation (NCWF) celebrated outstanding conservation efforts across the state at the 60th Annual Governor’s Conservation Achievement Awards ceremony, held on May 3, 2025. 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:
- Conservationist of the Year – Cameron Ingram (Climax)
- Wildlife Conservationist of the Year – Anton Michael “Mike” Wicker (Pinehurst)
- Sporting Family of the Year – Matt, John, and Sarah Barringer (Gold Hill)
- Land Conservationist of the Year – Amy and Ruth Ann Grissom (Charlotte)
- Water Conservationist of the Year – Coastal Carolina Riverwatch (Morehead City)
- Forest Conservationist of the Year – Robert Thomas (Thonotosassa, FL)
- Marine Resource Conservationist of the Year – Benjamin McNinch “Mac” Currin (Washington)
- Young Conservationist of the Year – Deja Perkins (Raleigh)
- Environmental Educator of the Year – Dr. Clyde Sorenson (Raleigh)
- Conservation Organization of the Year – Triangle Land Conservancy (Durham)
- Legislator of the Year – Representative Steve Ross (Alamance)
- Business Conservationist of the Year – Carolina Native Nursery (Burnsville)
- Natural Resources Scientist of the Year – Bryn Tracy (Apex)
- Wildlife Volunteer of the Year – Dr. Jin Bai (Durham)
- Public Lands Conservationist of the Year – Marquette Crockett (Asheville)
- NCWF Chapter of the Year – NCWF Wildlife Habitat Stewards of Northeastern NC Chapter (Elizabeth City)
- NCWF Affiliate of the Year – Gardening for Wildlife Committee, Cape Fear Garden Club (Wilmington)
- Wildlife Enforcement Officer of the Year – Master Officer Eric Crouse (Ronda)
- Marine Patrol Officer of the Year – Officer Candace Rose (Seven Springs)
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.
“Those of us who work for conservation all know: We stand on the shoulders of giants. Before us, and behind us, are those whose own work and commitment paved the way for our possibilities,” said T Edward Nickens. “And the wonder of this particular conservation program is that we learn about the giants in our midst—the incredible conservation heroes working right now, in our communities.”
