Fish and Game board citizens awards up for grabs

CONCORD, N.H. - Nominations for individuals to be recognized for making a difference for New Hampshire's wildlife, fisheries or habitats are now open and are due by Dec. 31.

Each year, the state Fish and Game Commission recognizes deserving individuals and organizations for outstanding achievements that help further the Fish and Game Department's mission. There are several different categories in which awards may be made, so select the one that best fits your honoree.

To nominate a person or an organization for one of these awards, download the nomination form at www.wildnh.com/about/documents/awards-of-excellence.pdf. Forms are also available at Fish and Game offices, or you can call (603) 271-3511 to request one by mail.

Send your nomination package, postmarked no later than Dec. 31, to: Commission Awards Program, N.H. Fish and Game Department, 11 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301. Electronic submissions are not accepted. Posthumous nominations are allowed.

The seven Award of Excellence categories:

1. Ellis R. Hatch Jr. Commission Award of Excellence- Recognizes an individual, group, organization, club, foundation or agency that has excelled in efforts to promote, enhance or benefit fish, wildlife or marine resources or the Department's mission.
2. Youth Conservationist - Awards an individual, 18 years of age or younger, who has excelled in efforts to benefit fish, wildlife or marine resources or the Department's mission.
3. Communications- Honors an outdoor communicator, writer, or media source (radio, television, magazine, newsletter or periodical) that has written or published articles or materials beneficial to public understanding about fish, wildlife or marine resources as they relate to the Department's mission. Judged on fairness, accuracy, timeliness, balance and quality of reporting.
4. Conservation Organization - Recognizes any organization, group, foundation or agency that has excelled in efforts to enhance the welfare of fish, wildlife and marine resources, and supporting achievement of the Department's mission. Recipients will be judged on their efforts to promote the wise use of natural resources for their recreational or economic value.
5. Volunteer - Honors an individual who, as a volunteer with the Department, has excelled in efforts to support and achieve Fish and Game's mission.
6. Habitat Stewardship- Recognizes an organization, non-governmental entity, individual or corporation that has excelled in the enhancement, conservation or creation of land management practices beneficial to New Hampshire's fish, wildlife and marine resources and the Department's mission.
7. Landowner Appreciation- Salutes a person who has excelled in preserving or enhancing opportunities for public use on private property, furthering Fish and Game's mission.