Award Nominations
Each year the Awards Committee reviews submissions and carefully selects one party for each of the award categories for recognition at our annual awards banquet.
Click one of the buttons below to make a submission online, or download the nomination form to complete and email it to the awards committee.
Submissions must be received by February 15 , 2026. NO EXCEPTIONS
Award Categories
Scroll Down to See History of Award Recipents!
Club of the Year Award
This award is given to the organization that has the most outstanding contributions to promote conservation or outdoor sports.
Dedicated Service Award
This award is given to an individual or group that has gone above and beyond, assisting the Federation with tireless effort whenever needed.
Lifetime Award
This award is given to an individual that has spent a lifetime contributing to the promotion and education of conservation and outdoor activities.
Public Servant of the Year
This award is to honor political representatives that have represented the voice of the conservation community to the government.
Public Service of the Year
This award is given to an individual or group that has participated in the enrichment of community events or programs through volunteer services or financial contributions.
Sportsman of the Year
This award is given to an individual who has by words and actions embodied the true nature of an outdoor enthusiast and have demonstrated honorable practices in all outdoor activities.
Public Relations of the Year
This award is given to a media representative who has had an impact on our community by using their talents to inform the public on items vital to the preservation of conservation.
Youth of the Year
This award is given to an individual under the age of 18, that is impassioned with the desire to participate in an outdoor activity to the very best of their ability. A true representative of future sportsmen and sportswomen.
Valerie E. Gonnello Sportswoman of the Year
Val was the consummate sportswoman. Standing side-by-side with her husband Tony, she excelled at everything she did. From shooting in trap leagues to fishing on the lake – she did it all and did it better than most, man or woman. This award is given to a woman that has the same fire and passion that Val had in everything they do.
Stanley Spisiak Conservationist Award
Stanley Spisiak, also known as “Mister Buffalo River” was a staunch conservationist that fought for the cleanup of the Buffalo River, Niagara River and Lake Erie. This award is given to an individual or group that has fought to protect our natural resources in similar fashion.
Paul Stoos Volunteer of the Year
The late Paul Stoos embodied the heart and meaning of “Volunteer” as he participated in every Federation event. This award is given to the individual who shares Pauls’ dedication to being a volunteer.
Environmentalist of the Year
Conservation Educator of the Year
A conservation educator plays a vital role in fostering an appreciation for natural resources through carefully designed educational initiatives. Whether through hunter education programs, field excursions, community events, or partnerships with schools and local organizations, these educators work diligently to promote a deeper understanding of and commitment to conservation.
President's Award
The President of the ECFSC, as an ex officio member of all committees, maintains a comprehensive perspective on the efforts and dedication of all individuals who advance the mission of the organization. This award is bestowed solely at the discretion of the President, who selects an individual or group whose contributions merit special recognition.
ECFSC Award Recipient History
(special thanks to Bob Avery, Chuck Godfrey and especially awards historian Frank Miskey Sr.)
Click on the award category. Awards will appear at the bottom of the screen on cell phones!