Awards are given annually in recognition of Montana wildlife professionals who exemplify the values of the Montana Chapter, have made remarkable professional contributions to wildlife science and/or conservation, or to those who have made it possible for wildlife professionals to be more effective.

Awards are presented at the annual meeting of the Montana Chapter, to be held the week of February 22, 2021 in virtual land. 

Types of Awards

The Chapter seeks nominations for five awards to be presented at the 2021 Conference (don't forget that newish one!).

The Distinguished Service Award

This award is presented annually for cumulative, past, current, and/or continuing achievements in wildlife conservation. This is typically acknowledgment of accomplishments over a career.

The Biologist of the Year Award

This award is presented annually for significant achievements in wildlife conservation anytime during the five years immediately preceding the award presentation.

The Bob Watts Communication Award

This award is presented for significant communication in media such as professional publications, popular wildlife articles, books, movies, or videos that have a relatively wide audience.

The Wildlife Conservation Award

This award is given to an individual or non-governmental organization for past, present, or ongoing efforts that enhance wildlife conservation in Montana

NEW(ish)!!!!**The Rising Professional Award

This award will recognize emerging professionals and rising leaders in the wildlife field who are drivers of professional progress in Montana. Eligible candidates will have worked in a part- or full-time professional capacity for at least 3 years, and no more than 8 years. Years need not be consecutive. Current students are not eligible. Employment may include, but is not limited to: wildlife and habitat management or research, conservation policy or advocacy, environmental education or program development, consultation, etc.

Nomination procedure for the Rising Professional Award: Co-workers, supervisees, supervisors, and other professional or public associates of a candidate may sponsor award submissions. Collaborations across a candidate’s employment history are encouraged.

Please submit 3 letters of sponsorship, no longer than one page each, that testify to the candidate’s record of:

• Professional-caliber engagement with supervisors, co-workers, supervisees, and the public
• Pursuit of professional and personal development
• Community involvement and commitment to work-life balance
• Practice of inclusion, equality, and respect across human circumstance and identity

For more information, visit The Montana Chapter of The Wildlife Society.