Wyoming Outdoor Hall of Fame Nominations Open Until March 31

There is still time to recognize the people who have helped shape Wyoming’s outdoor legacy. Nominations for the 2026 Wyoming Outdoor Hall of Fame are now open, but the window is closing quickly, with a final deadline of March 31, 2026.

Administered by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, the Outdoor Hall of Fame is one of the state’s highest honors for conservation. It recognizes individuals whose lifetime efforts have made a meaningful and lasting impact on Wyoming’s natural resources, wildlife, and outdoor traditions.

“Being inducted into the Wyoming Outdoor Hall of Fame is the highest recognition for a lifetime of outstanding contributions to conservation,” said Director Angi Bruce. “We are excited to see the nominations for our 2026 inductees and encourage everyone to help us find and honor those individuals who have dedicated their lives to preserving Wyoming’s outdoor heritage.”

Honoring a Lifetime of Conservation Impact

The Hall of Fame highlights individuals who have contributed across a wide range of conservation fields. Nominees may have made their mark through professional careers or volunteer efforts, with eligible areas including:

• Environmental law enforcement
• Applied resource management
• Conservation education
• Policy development and public leadership
• Scientific research
• Conservation storytelling through writing, art, or journalism
• Broader contributions to Wyoming’s outdoor heritage

The selection committee evaluates nominees based on the scope and significance of their work, considering whether their contributions have influenced conservation at the state, regional, or even national level.

Recognizing the Next Generation

In addition to lifetime achievement honorees, the Hall of Fame also includes a Youth Conservationist of the Year award. Introduced in 2023, this category recognizes Wyoming residents 18 years old or younger who demonstrate leadership, initiative, and measurable impact in conservation efforts.

It is a reminder that Wyoming’s outdoor future depends not only on those who have spent decades protecting it, but also on young leaders already stepping up to carry that mission forward.

A Legacy Rooted in Wyoming’s Outdoors

The Wyoming Outdoor Hall of Fame was established in 2004 by then-Governor Dave Freudenthal to honor both living and posthumous contributors to conservation. Since then, it has served as a lasting tribute to individuals who have helped preserve the landscapes, wildlife, and traditions that define the state.

From wildlife managers and researchers to educators, artists, and advocates, inductees represent the many ways conservation work shapes everyday life across Wyoming.

How to Submit a Nomination

Nominations must include a completed application along with a summary of the individual’s accomplishments. Submissions can be sent by email or mail:

Email: amanda.fry@wyo.gov

Mailing Address:
Wyoming Game and Fish Department
Wyoming Outdoor Hall of Fame
5400 Bishop Blvd.
Cheyenne, WY 82006

With the deadline approaching, now is the time to recognize someone whose work has made a lasting difference. Whether through decades of service or emerging leadership, these stories help define Wyoming’s outdoor heritage and ensure it continues for generations to come.