Award winners are honored at a luncheon in September, where they receive a plaque and a photo with the State Forester and NDSU President. Awardees and their families also receive free tickets to the Trees Bowl NDSU football game and are recognized on the field at half-time.

A community that demonstrates, through exemplary leadership or outstanding example, its commitment to the development or enthusiastic continuation of a sustainable community forestry program for present and future generations.
2023 Winner: Larimore

CONSERVATION ACHIEVEMENT

An individual, family or business that exhibits an outstanding commitment to overall conservation including the planting and care of trees and shrubs for the purpose of enhancing North Dakota's landscape.
2023 Winner: Donald and Mary Lou Gentzkow, Harlan Witt

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

Presented to an individual exhibiting enthusiastic promotion of forestry principles and practices including: fire mitigation, protection and suppression; tree planting, preservation, or maintenance; community forestry efforts; forest management practices; forest recreation; or environmental education.
2023 Winner: Duane Elness

ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR

An educator who demonstrates creativity, dedication and commitment to teaching and who's outstanding leadership motivates others to learn about the benefits of forestry and the environment.
2023 Winner: Angela Bartholomay

EXCELLENCE IN GOVERNMENT

An agency or division of government at any level that exhibits extraordinary effort and dedication in the conduct of programs and projects that result in a significant benefit to forestry.
2023 Winner: North Dakota Game & Fish

FIRE DEPARTMENT COOPERATOR OF THE YEAR

A fire department that demonstrates leadership and commitment to the enhancement of its fire suppression capabilities, wildfire awareness and prevention, and active mitigation of wildfire hazards through involvement with Cooperative Fire Protection programs, wildland fire training and interagency cooperation.
2023 Winner: Kindred Fire Department

FOREST STEWARDSHIP LANDOWNER OF THE YEAR

The Forest Stewardship Landowner of the Year is selected by NDFS Forest Stewardship Staff to recognize private landowners who go above and beyond in their efforts to protect, enhance and preserve their forest resources.
2023 Winner: Keith Knudson

MEDIA OUTREACH

An individual or company that disseminates news, editorial, commentary, documentary or other information which assists in raising public awareness about the benefits and challenges associated with forestry activities.
2023 Winner: Blake Nicholson, Bismarck Tribune

NATURAL RESOURCES PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

An individual employed in the natural resources field dedicated to forestry, fire, stewardship, tree planting, tree care or tree preservation through exemplary leadership or outstanding example at the local, county, regional or state level.
2023 Winner: Brian Prince, North Dakota Game & Fish

SMOKEY BEAR POSTER CONTEST

A celebration which highlights the many benefits that trees provide and incorporates both an educational component and hands-on activity to stimulate increased knowledge, interest and action.
2022 Winner: Mia Gasevic, Fargo
2023 Winner: Braxton Sangrait, Park River

TREE CELEBRATION

A celebration which highlights the many benefits that trees provide and incorporates both an educational component and hands-on activity to stimulate increased knowledge, interest and action.
2023 Winner: Lamoure

VOLUNTEER ORGANIZATION

An organization that exhibits the true spirit of leadership, dedication and volunteerism by planning, conducting and maintaining outstanding forestry projects.
2023 Winner: Gackle Park Board

YOUTH TREE PLANTERS

A youth group whose members exhibit genuine concern for the natural environment by participation in tree planting, tree care, tree preservation or tree knowledge projects and activities.
2023 Winner: Fargo Forestry Department & Fargo Park District

If you have someone to nominate for any of these awards,
please submit a nomination using the QR code below.