Washington Conservation Award
Detailed Description:
The Washington Conservation Award is presented by the Washington State Council of Fly Fishers International (WSCFFI) to honor a group ororganization whose efforts have made noteworthy and meaningful contributions to the conservation, protection, or restoration of Washington State’sfisheries and aquatic ecosystems. This award acknowledges impactful work that benefits fish populations, habitat, water quality, and the overallhealth of the state’s fishing resources.
The award may recognize a single, outstanding conservation initiative or a sustained series of efforts demonstrating long-term commitment andeffectiveness. It is reserved for those whose work exemplifies exceptional dedication, environmental stewardship, and a measurable positive impact on the state’s waters and fisheries.
The honoree may be a nonprofit organization, community group, conservation club, government agency, or any coalition that has gone aboveand beyond in the pursuit of fisheries conservation. While affiliation with Fly Fishers International is not required, the nominated work mustreflect values and practices that align with the mission and
conservation philosophy of the FFI.
Award Criteria:
Eligibility: FFI Charter and Affiliated fly clubs are eligible as well as any local or national group, club, nonprofit, coalition, orgovernment agency regardless of affiliation with the FFI.
Previous Recipients: The nominated group or organization must not have previously received this award.
Type of Contribution: The award may be based on either a single, impactful
conservation project or a continuous pattern of significant contributions to fishery conservation within Washington State.
Scope and Impact: Contributions must demonstrate clear benefits to the waters, fish populations, and fishing opportunities for Washington fly fishers, whether on a local, regional, or statewide level.
Exceptional Effort: Actions must reflect uncommon dedication, innovation, or persistence, and be consistent with FFI conservationgoals and ethics.
Merit-Based Presentation: This award is not necessarily given annually. It is presented only when a candidate’s achievements aredeemed truly deserving of recognition.
Checklist for Evaluation:
Clear Conservation Impact: Has the nominee’s work produced measurable improvements in fish habitat, water quality, fish populations,or ecosystem health in Washington State? Provide documented factual data of the contributions with date and specific examples.What was their contribution, and when?
Scope and Reach: Was the project or series of efforts significant in scale, either geographically or in terms of influence and publicbenefit?
Innovation and Leadership: Did the nominee demonstrate leadership, creativity, or pioneering methods in addressing conservationchallenges?
Sustained Commitment: Has the nominee shown long-term engagement in conservation efforts, or was the recognized project a major milestone in their broader conservation mission?
Alignment with FFI Values: Do the nominee’s actions reflect the principles and philosophies of Fly Fishers International, particularlyregarding sustainable fisheries, responsible stewardship, and ecological integrity?
All nominations will be reviewed by the Awards Chairman and the Director of Conservation. They will make recommendations to the full AwardsCommittee for final selection and BoD approval
