Calls of the Wild: Conservation Season Open for Award Nominations, Wildlife Photo Submissions and Scholarship Applications
Calls of the wild for conservation season
Since 1945, North Carolina Wildlife Federation has worked for all wildlife and habitat, bringing together outdoor enthusiasts, hunters and anglers, government and industry to protect the state’s natural resources. Our work is centered around conserving wildlife, restoring habitat, connecting people with nature, conservation policy, climate resiliency and celebrating conservation.
“Celebrating Conservation” season is open now, with statewide calls of the wild for conservation award nominations, wildlife photo submissions and college scholarship applications.
Conservation Award Nominations (June 15 deadline)
NCWF also seeks conservation heroes from across the state for its 59th annual Governor’s Conservation Achievement Awards. The prestigious awards have honored individuals, associations, businesses, and governmental bodies that have exhibited an unwavering commitment to conserving North Carolina’s natural resources.
The online nomination deadline is June 15 at 6:00 pm; award recipients will be honored at a banquet on Sept. 9. Categories include Conservationist, Wildlife Conservationist, Sportsman or Sportswoman, Land Conservationist, Water Conservationist, Forest Conservationist, Marine Resources, Environmental Educator, Young Conservationist, Legislator, Conservation Organization, Business Conservationist, and Natural Resources Agency or Scientist of the Year.
Wildlife Photography Contest (September 1 deadline)
NCWF’s 5th Annual Wildlife Photography Contest for professional, amateur and youth photographers runs from July 1, through September 1. Images must be taken in North Carolina and highlight the beauty of the state’s nature and wildlife, whether in a backyard or across the state. Categories are Carolina Critters, People in Nature, Scenes of North Carolina and Pollinators & Insects (new category).
Entry donations start at $15 for 12 photos (3 images max per category), with all proceeds supporting the conservation and restoration of wildlife and habitat in North Carolina. Visit NCWF’s photo contest page for entry requirements and contest rules. Photographers must submit entries electronically by July 31. Email [email protected] for questions.
College Scholarship Applications (June 16 deadline)
Since the 1970s, NCWF has awarded scholarships to college students studying and working in the wildlife and conservation fields. Applicants must be enrolled full-time at an accredited North Carolina college or university with a major related to wildlife, fisheries, forestry, natural resources, conservation or environmental studies.
NCWF will provide up to seven grants, which may include one $2,500 Conservation Leadership grant for a student of outstanding merit. Socio-economic elements, extra-curricular involvement and academic performance all impact final decisions.
Students must submit scholarship applications and supporting documents online by June 16. Visit NCWF’s scholarship page to learn more or apply. For questions, email Lacy Kegley at [email protected].