Honoring dedicated community members making outstanding contributions to Alaska’s conservation movement
Anchorage, Alaska – Alaska Conservation Foundation is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Alaska Conservation Achievement Awards. These awards recognize the remarkable achievements of individuals and organizations committed to protecting Alaska’s wild landscapes, natural resources and unique ways of life. Each year, Alaska Conservation Foundation celebrates the tireless efforts of these community members who work to ensure Alaska remains thoughtfully protected for generations to come. The awardees will be honored at the 2024 Conservation Achievement Awards Ceremony on October 3, 2024, at 6:00 PM at the Anchorage Museum. Join us, your friends and colleagues in celebrating these individuals and the whole Alaska conservation community.
“We are deeply honored to host the 2024 Conservation Achievement Awards and celebrate the incredible individuals who have devoted their lives to protecting Alaska’s wild landscapes and unique ways of life,” said Michael Barber, Executive Director of the Alaska Conservation Foundation. “Many of these recipients have not only safeguarded our environment but have also inspired others to view Alaska through a new lens—whether through their advocacy, education, or artistic expression. It takes a determined, dedicated community of excellent individuals to move the conservation needle, and we are thrilled to have such outstanding people supporting a cause we all believe in.”
This event is more than an awards ceremony—it’s a celebration of the passion and commitment of those who work tirelessly to protect Alaska’s wild landscapes. Join us for an inspiring evening as we honor these exceptional individuals and unite to safeguard Alaska’s future.
Whether your passion lies in wildlife preservation, environmental education, or the arts’ role in driving change, this event offers something for everyone. Be a part of this special night and celebrate the diverse ways we can all contribute to preserving Alaska’s unparalleled natural heritage.
2024 Conservation Achievement Award Recipients
Lifetime Achievement Award – Kay Brown
Over almost five decades in Alaska, Kay has been a leader for the causes of conservation and pro-climate action. Her work includes promoting a clean, prosperous future for Alaska, advocating for the de-carbonization of the economy, and moving Alaska off fossil fuels. Kay participates in the Alaska Climate Alliance on behalf of Pacific Environment and has served as Arctic Policy Director since 2020. She is a former Alaska State Representative and former Executive Director of the Alaska Conservation Alliance and Alaska Conservation Voters. In 2017, she was inducted into the Alaska Women’s Hall of Fame.
Lifetime Achievement Award – Art Sowls
Art, born into a conservation-minded family, has spent his career working for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, notably on seabird conservation. His contributions include surveying seabird colonies and collaborating with Alaska Native communities on conservation efforts. Art continues his conservation work in Alaska, driven by his passion for the state’s natural beauty.
Olaus Murie Award for Outstanding Professional Contributions – John Morton
John, a wildlife ecologist with 32 years at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, has focused on biodiversity and climate change. His work includes eradicating invasive species, conserving brown bears, and promoting climate adaptation. Since retiring, he continues to advocate for climate adaptation through NGOs.
Daniel Housberg Wilderness Image Award for Excellence in Still Photography, Film or Video – Max Romey
Max is a filmmaker and artist known for fusing cinematography with watercolor to create impactful environmental documentaries. He founded Trailbound Sketches in 2020 and has connected with a global audience through his work, which highlights environmental issues through art and film.
Jerry S. Dixon Award for Excellence in Environmental Education – Robin Mayo
Robin, Executive Director of the Wrangell Institute for Science and Environment, has created programs that combine outdoor adventure with environmental education. Her work in the Copper River Basin helps people of all ages connect to nature.
Celia Hunter Award for Outstanding Volunteer Contributions – Ben Kirkpatrick
Ben, a former Habitat Biologist with Alaska Department of Fish & Game, has been deeply involved with the Takshanuk Watershed Council, Southeast Alaska Watershed Coalition, and Rivers Without Borders. His contributions have significantly impacted Southeast Alaska’s conservation efforts.
Lowell Thomas Jr. Award for Outstanding Achievements by an Organization Doing Conservation Work – Susitna River Coalition
The Susitna River Coalition, a dedicated grassroots organization based in Talkeetna, has successfully opposed the Susitna-Watana hydroelectric dam and continues to advocate for the Susitna Watershed’s ecological integrity.
Denny Wilcher Award for Young Environmental Activists – Haven Marban
Haven, a recent West High School graduate, led the West High Environmental Club and organized numerous environmental initiatives during her years there. She plans to study wildlife conservation in college.
Caleb Pungowiyi Award for Outstanding Achievements by an Alaska Native Organization or Individual – Alannah Hurley
Alannah (Yup’ik) is the Executive Director of the United Tribes of Bristol Bay and is dedicated to advancing Tribal sovereignty and self-determination for Alaska’s indigenous people. She has been leading the successful Tribe-based effort to protect the world’s largest wild salmon population and the ways of life of people who inhabit the Bristol Bay region for more than a decade.
Award Categories
The Conservation Achievement Awards highlight various aspects of conservation, from lifetime achievements to contributions in education, photography, and volunteerism. Each category represents a unique way in which individuals and organizations have contributed to the protection and preservation of Alaska’s environment and cultural heritage. For a full list of award categories and more information on each recipient, please visit our website.
Event Details
The 2024 Conservation Achievement Awards Ceremony is your chance to join fellow Alaskans in celebrating the people who work tirelessly to ensure our state remains a treasure for future generations. Tickets are available now, and you can learn more about the event and the awardees here.
