Diversity and Inclusion Awards

The SEAFWA Diversity and Inclusion Awards were initiated in 2019 to recognize member agencies' significant commitments to recruiting, retaining, and promoting a diverse workforce and access to outdoor activities targeting underrepresented populations. This recognition also allows the sharing of best practices for other agencies to follow.

Nominees can be member agencies, specific teams, or individuals focusing on these goals. 

Beginning in 2023, there are two categories of agency recognition:  

  1. Gold Award: Awardees are exemplary examples of workforce engagement or outreach and education. Winners will receive an award plaque and recognition at the annual SEAFWA Banquet. Winners are required to present their programs at the next SEAFWA conference. 
  2. Silver Award: Awardees are excellent examples of workforce engagement or outreach and education. Winners will receive an awards plaque and be recognized at the SEAFWA Banquet. 

The awards are selected by the SEAFWA Minorities in Natural Resources Conservation Committee (MINRC), and that committee reserves the right to select no more than two gold and silver winners. Member agencies are asked to refrain from applying if they have won three consecutive years.

Current Application Form

Current Process and Criteria

Contact Information

For additional information about the Diversity Award Program, please contact the current SEAFWA MINRC Committee Chair.

Recipients
2023
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
2023
Gold Award - South Carolina Department of Natural Resources
2023
Gold Award - Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation
2023
Sliver Award - Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
2022
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
2022
Diversity and Inclusion Award - Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
2022
Diversity and Inclusion Award - Missouri Department of Conservation
2021
Diversity and Inclusion Award - South Carolina Department of Natural Resources
(news article)
2021
Diversity and Inclusion Award - Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources
(news article)
2020
Diversity and Inclusion Award - Community Outdoor Outreach Program (CO-OP), Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
(news article)
2019
Diversity and Inclusion Award - Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division
(news article)
2019
Diversity and Inclusion Award - Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation