Order of the Bighorn

Important dates

Overview

Volunteer conservation efforts have significant positive local, regional and provincial impacts and are an inspiration to their communities.

Established in 1982, the Order of the Bighorn recognizes Albertans for their exceptional volunteer efforts towards fish, wildlife and habitat conservation. Since its inception, the award has honoured 114 individuals and organizations for their contributions. In addition to recognition, winners receive the distinguished Bighorn sheep bronzed bust. The Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep is Alberta’s official mammal, embodying the diverse wildlife and resources of the province.

The awards also acknowledge the importance of ongoing stewardship of our natural resources. Members of the Order of the Bighorn have distinguished themselves and enriched the lives of all Albertans through their commitment to the environment and Alberta’s world-renowned fish and wildlife.

To celebrate Alberta Environment and Parks’ 50th anniversary in 2021, the department is resuming the Order of the Bighorn, last held in 2015. Thanks to the generous support of sponsors, the awards will be held every 2 years.

Eligibility

The public are invited to nominate individuals who have made significant voluntary contributions towards fish, wildlife and habitat conservation in Alberta.

Types of awards

Nominees must have demonstrated outstanding volunteer efforts in one of these award categories:

1. Engagement of youth in conservation initiatives.
2. Enhancement of local, regional or provincial fish or wildlife populations through direct actions.
3. Focus on community engagement and inspire others to act.
4. Increased public education and awareness about conservation and the environment.
5. Promotion of habitat conservation or land stewardship ethics.
6. (NEW) Demonstration of conservation by Albertans under 18 years of age.

These volunteer efforts should:

• focus on collaboration and building partnerships
• demonstrate vision and/or leadership
• inspire and influence others
• demonstrate long-term involvement or commitment to volunteer efforts
• result in tangible outcomes that benefit native fish, wildlife and habitats

How to nominate

Step 1. Complete the nomination package

Download and fill out the Order of the Bighorn Nomination Form.

Download nomination form (DOCX, 194 KB)

Gather the following mandatory documents:

• letters of support
• photos illustrating program success or activities

Step 2. Submit the nomination package

By email:

Scan the nomination package and email to: [email protected]

By mail:

Order of the Bighorn awards
Alberta Environment and Parks
c/o Fish and Wildlife Stewardship
6th Floor Forestry Building
9920 108 Street
Edmonton, Alberta  T5K 2M4

After you nominate

September to October – after nominations for this year’s awards are received, an award jury reviews all applications based on demonstration of merit according to the 6 themes. The jury then recommends recipients to the department.

November – award recipients are notified 2 weeks before the Order of the Bighorn Award events, to be held in November.

Award recipients

2021 award recipients

This years’ award recipients will be announced in November 2021.

2015 award recipients

• John Campbell Jr.
• Tim Dietzler
• Bazil Leonard
• Maurice Nadeau
• Tom Partello
• Gottlob Schmidt