N.C. Wildlife Federation Announces 61st Annual Governor’s Conservation Achievement Award Recipients

North Carolina Wildlife Federation has announced the winners of its 61st Annual Governor’s Conservation Achievement Awards. Honorees for 2026 include agency professionals, elected officials, volunteers and organizations committed to North Carolina’s wildlife, habitat, and natural resources.

NCWF will honor the award recipients at a banquet on Saturday, May 2nd at Embassy Suites in Cary, NC. (RSVP and purchase tickets for the 61st Annual Governor’s Conservation Achievement Awards.)

North Carolina Wildlife Federation first presented its conservation awards in 1958. 

“Each year we are amazed at the commitment and creativity of North Carolina citizens in protecting wildlife and wild places,” stated T. Edward Nickens, NCWF Awards Committee Chair. “Many of our award winners tell us their Governor Conservation Achievement Award represents the high point of their career, whether they are full-time scientists or full-time volunteer conservationists.”

These annual awards provide a platform to highlight inspiring wildlife conservation efforts across North Carolina, with the goal of encouraging active participation in safeguarding the state’s natural resources for the well-being of future generations.

In addition, NCWF is honoring a lifetime achievement by inducting Katherine Skinner, The Nature Conservancy North Carolina State Director, into the Conservation Hall of Fame, celebrating decades of dedicated service and lasting impact on North Carolina’s wildlife and natural resources.

2026 Governor’s Conservation Achievement Award Recipients

Conservation Hall of Fame – Katherine Skinner (Durham)

Conservationist of the Year – Senator Bill Rabon (Winnabow)

Wildlife Conservationist of the Year – Curtis Smalling (Garner)

Sporting Family of the Year – Robert Holland “Sandy” Brady (Reidsville)

Land Conservationist of the Year – The Futral Family (Richlands)

Forest Conservationist of the Year – Julie H. Moore (Raleigh)

Marine Resource Conservationist of the Year – Joan Maxwell (Edenton)

Young Conservationist of the Year – Celia Kaul (Charlotte)

Environmental Educator of the Year – Abby Weinshenker (Concord)

Conservation Organization of the Year – N.C. Coastal Land Trust

Natural Resources Agency of the Year – North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission

Business Conservationist of the Year – Raven Invasive Plant Management (Asheville)

Natural Resources Scientist of the Year – Dr. Arthur E Bogan (Raleigh)

Wildlife Volunteer of the Year – Dennis Ward (Hickory)

Public Lands Conservationist of the Year – Blue Ridge Guide Association

NCWF Chapter of the Year – Lake Norman Wildlife Conservationists (Cornelius)

Wildlife Enforcement Officer of the Year – Officer William “Thomas” Weaver (Lawndale)

Marine Patrol Officer of the Year – Officer Jonathan Price (Jamesville)

About the Recipients

Conservation Hall of Fame
Katherine Skinner (Durham)

Katherine Skinner’s visionary leadership transformed land and water conservation in North Carolina during her tenure with The Nature Conservancy, protecting more than 460,000 acres and contributing to 745,000 acres conserved statewide. She championed ecologically significant landscapes including the Amphibolite Mountains, longleaf pine ecosystems, the Roanoke River corridor, and critical coastal habitats. Skinner advanced durable conservation funding through the Natural Heritage Trust Fund, the Clean Water Management Trust Fund, and the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, directing over a billion dollars toward conservation projects. She strengthened partnerships with state and federal leaders to secure major federal investments, including EPA Climate Pollution Reduction funding for peatland restoration. Through collaborations with the military, agencies, nonprofits, and private landowners, Skinner safeguarded critical wildlife habitat, restored freshwater and coastal ecosystems, and enhanced public access. Her work ensures North Carolina’s natural heritage will endure for generations to come.

Conservationist of the Year
Senator Bill Rabon (Winnabow)

Senator Bill Rabon has demonstrated steadfast leadership in conserving North Carolina’s natural resources throughout his service representing the 8th Senate District. A veterinarian and avid outdoorsman, he has championed legislation protecting trout waters, native plants along highways, and vital coastal estuaries. Senator Rabon helped curb destructive fishing practices and safeguarded fisheries and the communities that depend on them. He advocated for increased funding for land conservation trusts and wildlife crossings, enhancing habitat connectivity and public safety. Through thoughtful policymaking and consistent advocacy, he strengthened conservation outcomes statewide. Senator Rabon’s work reflects both personal passion and professional expertise, reinforcing North Carolina’s commitment to wildlife and natural heritage.

Wildlife Conservationist of the Year
Curtis Smalling (Garner)

For over two decades, Curtis Smalling has dedicated his career to protecting birds and their habitats across North Carolina. As Vice President and Executive Director of Audubon North Carolina, he leads science-based conservation initiatives from the mountains to the coast. Smalling has protected thousands of acres of critical habitat, launched marsh restoration projects, and advanced bird-friendly native plant policies statewide. He created the Bird Friendly Communities program and works with private landowners to support priority species like the Golden-winged Warbler. Smalling also launched Audubon’s first Urban Forestry program and serves on national and international bird conservation committees. Through science, partnership, and advocacy, he has become a leading voice for bird conservation in North Carolina.

Sportsman/Sportswoman of the Year
Robert Holland “Sandy” Brady (Reidsville)

Robert Holland “Sandy” Brady has devoted a lifetime to mentoring young hunters and anglers while promoting ethical sportsmanship and wildlife stewardship. Inspired by his father, he has taught fieldcraft, firearms safety, and wildlife identification to hundreds of youth. Brady has served on the board of the North Carolina Wildlife Habitat Foundation, expanding youth hunting opportunities and protecting key habitats. He has partnered with organizations including the National Wild Turkey Federation, Ducks Unlimited, and the NCWRC to support outdoor education. Brady plays a central role in youth programs like the Youth Sportsman Camp and Rockingham County Youth Outdoor Day. Through mentorship, leadership, and personal example, he ensures conservation values endure in North Carolina’s outdoor communities.

Land Conservationist of the Year
The Futral Family (Richlands)

For three generations, the Futral family has demonstrated extraordinary stewardship of their 465-acre Onslow County farm, balancing productive timber operations with wildlife habitat protection. Their property, permanently protected through a perpetual conservation easement, is part of the Eastern North Carolina Sentinel Landscape and recognized as an NC Forever Farm. The easement supports both conservation and military readiness for nearby Marine Corps bases, preventing incompatible development. Under a comprehensive forest management plan, the family restores longleaf pine, wetlands, and wildlife food plots while maintaining sustainable timber harvests. Their work exemplifies how private landowners can safeguard biodiversity and community values. 

Marine Conservationist of the Year
Joan Maxwell (Edenton)

Joan Maxwell has shown extraordinary leadership in marine conservation and recreational sportfishing as President and Co-Founder of Regulator Marine. Over 37 years, she helped build one of the nation’s most respected offshore sportfishing boat manufacturers while maintaining a commitment to marine stewardship. Maxwell champions sustainable fisheries management, responsible angling, and public access to coastal waters. She brings personal passion to conservation, promoting policies that protect fish populations for future generations. Maxwell’s contributions have earned national recognition, including induction into the National Marine Manufacturers Association Hall of Fame. Her work strengthens North Carolina’s coastal resources and sporting heritage.

Environmental Educator of the Year
Abby Weinshenker (Concord)

Abby Weinshenker has made a transformative impact on conservation education through hands-on learning and community engagement. She ensures all students, including multilingual learners, can participate in citizen science and conservation projects. Weinshenker mentors local Envirothon teams and leads initiatives like Creek Week, fostering environmental literacy and stewardship. Her guidance helps students collect meaningful data and gain recognition in statewide competitions. She inspires young people to see themselves as contributors to real-world conservation efforts. Weinshenker’s dedication exemplifies the power of education to cultivate future conservation leaders.

Forest Conservationist of the Year
Julie H. Moore (Raleigh)

Julie H. Moore has spent over four decades protecting and restoring North Carolina’s longleaf pine ecosystems. Beginning with the NC Natural Heritage Program, she identified critical habitats and led statewide conservation efforts. Moore negotiated voluntary management agreements with public and private partners, including the military, and promoted stewardship practices. She coordinated Safe Harbor agreements for the red-cockaded woodpecker and established Working Lands for Wildlife programs supporting at-risk species. Moore has mobilized volunteers to protect iconic species like the Venus flytrap and continues to advocate for sound forest management. Her work ensures North Carolina’s longleaf pine ecosystems remain vibrant and resilient.

Young Conservationist of the Year
Celia Kaul (Charlotte)

Celia Kaul has shown remarkable initiative in protecting natural spaces as a young student. When her school campus in Charlotte faced demolition, she led efforts to preserve its 15-acre ecosystem, including mature trees and wildlife habitats. Kaul coordinated with arborists, city officials, and developers, researched preservation methods, and organized community support, securing nearly 900 petition signatures. Her efforts resulted in the trees being protected and development proceeding around them. This achievement safeguarded a vital green space and inspired community engagement. 

Conservation Organization of the Year
N.C. Coastal Land Trust 

The N.C. Coastal Land Trust (NCCLT) permanently protected 150 acres on the south end of Topsail Island, home to wetlands and 31 threatened species. When a private sale in 2022 threatened development, NCCLT led an $8 million “Save The South End” campaign, combining fundraising, grants, and negotiations to secure the property. The organization mobilized over 750 donors, raised $1.6 million in private funds, and obtained more than $6 million in grants. Beyond acquisition, NCCLT launched stewardship programs, engaging volunteers in habitat protection, beach patrols, and endangered bird nesting site management. The effort demonstrates NCCLT’s capacity to blend conservation, community engagement, and public access. 

Natural Resources Agency of the Year

North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission

The Commission, through its leadership team, is recognized for efforts to further Red Wolf recovery, reversing a decade-old policy and signing a 2025 MOU with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This agreement established a framework for cooperative management, integrating adaptive strategies, landowner engagement, and recovery actions on the Albemarle Peninsula. By revisiting previous resolutions, the Commission restored trust between state and federal agencies and enabled science-based collaboration. Their efforts align with the Revised Red Wolf Recovery Plan and prioritize measurable conservation outcomes. The efforts of the leadership team exemplify the power of interagency cooperation in species recovery. Their work strengthens North Carolina’s wildlife stewardship and sets a national example for collaborative management.

Natural Resources Scientist of the Year
Dr. Arthur E. Bogan (Raleigh)

Dr. Arthur E. Bogan is being honored for 50 years of research and conservation of freshwater mussels, a keystone species critical to North Carolina’s aquatic ecosystems. He has described 37 new species and four subspecies, with seven species, a subspecies, and a genus named in his honor. Dr. Bogan has published 233 peer-reviewed articles and 14 books, cited over 12,800 times, providing foundational knowledge for conservation efforts worldwide. He has served on 14 national and international committees, led 11 international symposia, and contributed to state and regional conservation plans. His work bridges meticulous science with practical conservation, ensuring freshwater mussels and their habitats are preserved. 

Business Conservationist of the Year
Raven Invasive Plant Management (Asheville)

Raven Invasive Plant Management, founded by Raven Sterling in 2019, restores ecosystems in the Blue Ridge Mountains through mechanical, non-chemical removal of invasive plants. Sterling’s approach promotes native plant recovery, long-term ecological resilience, and sustainable land management. Notable projects include Reedy Meadow restoration and multiple efforts for the Naturaland Trust, benefiting federally endangered species. The company educates landowners, municipalities, and conservation groups on non-chemical methods, demonstrating scalable and economically viable practices. Employing 12 full-time staff and two contractors, Raven Invasive Plant Management is a replicable model for conservation-focused business. Sterling’s leadership has earned international recognition, including the Fluxx Global Pioneer Award.

Wildlife Volunteer of the Year
Dennis Ward (Hickory)

Dennis Ward has volunteered over 1,250 hours with the Carolina Raptor Center since 2024, responding to 177 rescue calls in 2025 alone. He safely captures, handles, and transports injured raptors while educating the public on their ecological importance. Ward’s thoughtful communication fosters awareness and inspires conservation action, embodying his philosophy that “education is the cure.” He has also expressed plans to establish a wildlife rehabilitation center in Hickory, demonstrating long-term commitment. 

Public Lands Conservationist of the Year

Blue Ridge Guide Association 

Formed two years ago, the Blue Ridge Guide Association comprises guides, outfitters, and industry supporters in western North Carolina, eastern Tennessee, and southwestern Virginia. The group formed as conversations with the Tennessee Valley Authority over water releases in the South Holston and Watauga Rivers were highlighting the negative impacts low water releases were having on trout populations. BRGA has been proactive in conservation, placing water quality and quantity monitoring equipment in both big rivers and smaller tributary streams. While the two rivers are in east Tennessee, scores of North Carolina guides and untold hundreds of North Carolina anglers fish the renowned streams, which help support a green economy throughout the region.

NCWF Community Wildlife Chapter of the Year
Lake Norman Wildlife Conservationists 

After Hurricane Helene, the Lake Norman Wildlife Conservationists removed over 50 tons of debris from islands and shorelines with 100 volunteers, restoring critical habitats. They expanded the Island Habitat Program to protect nearly 100 islands across four counties, increasing volunteer leadership and engagement. The chapter has placed 2,000 Christmas trees in the lake to create fish habitat, installed NCWF’s ninth rock reef, and improved public fishing access at Patriot Pier. Earth Day activities and the Young Explorers program educated the community on native wildlife and ecosystems. They engaged over 15,000 residents through events, raising over $15,000 to support conservation efforts. Through volunteerism, habitat restoration, and education, the chapter demonstrates exemplary community leadership and impact.

Wildlife Enforcement Officer of the Year
Officer William “Thomas” Weaver (Lawndale)

Officer Thomas Weaver has distinguished himself as a Wildlife Officer since 2020, protecting natural resources and enhancing public safety in Cleveland County. He has built strong partnerships with fire departments, police, and the courts, while mentoring new officers and supporting youth programs through Cross Trail Outfitters. Weaver completed specialized training in boat incident investigation and FAA-certified drone operations to improve enforcement and public safety. He investigated multiple boating and hunting violations, leading to arrests, seizures, and the prevention of illegal wildlife take. His quick thinking and courage have saved lives, including rescuing a father and daughter and an 18-year-old from dangerous water incidents. Officer Weaver’s dedication, leadership, and innovation exemplify the highest standards of wildlife enforcement and community service.

 

Marine Patrol Officer of the Year
Officer Jonathan Price (Jamesville) 

Officer Jonathan Price’s professionalism and steadfast dedication have strengthened marine resource conservation and public safety across North Carolina through his service with the North Carolina Marine Patrol. Since joining the Patrol in 2023, he has identified significant fisheries and boating safety violations involving spotted sea trout, crabs, Spanish mackerel, and sheepshead, reinforcing compliance and protecting coastal resources. He has supported complex investigations, assisted fellow officers on major enforcement actions, and responded to search and rescue operations in challenging weather and environmental conditions. As a certified member of the Marine Patrol Swift Water Rescue Team, Price deployed during Hurricane Helene, contributing to large-scale evacuations and a life-saving floodwater rescue. He advances the agency’s mission through his service as a Field Training Officer and his leadership in public outreach efforts, including youth marine conservation education initiatives.