Each year, the Native American Fish & Wildlife Society recognize individuals working in the tribal natural resource management. This award will go to a person that has been in their field or position for up to 2 years (since date of hire) and that works in the capacity of a fish and wildlife biologist, botanist, forester, natural resources manager, environmental educator, cultural preservationist, conservation law enforcement, environmental law or similar natural resources capacity. This person has entered their field with enthusiasm, willingness to learn and great work ethic. Although this person is new to the workforce, in their time, they have contributed immensely to the team, provided input, expressed new/ innovated ideas and set high expectations. This person has added more value to the department/programs with their attitude, ideas, work ethic, input, character and personality. Their coworkers and supervisors can agree that this person is an asset to the team and that they have high hopes for this person’s future positive impact in natural resources and Indian Country.
These individuals are also performing exceptional work. So to acknowledge their work, the NAFWS each year puts out a call for nominations to tribes so that tribal natural resource emerging professionals could be recognized and honored for their exceptional work which is viewed as a contribution to the betterment of tribal natural resources management. Their impact in Indian Country also creates the road for better tribal natural resources management for the future.
The Emerging Professional Award each year is presented during the NAFWS National Conference.
The Native American Fish & Wildlife Society has recognized these stewards of the environment and natural resources:
