Conservation Awards
Recognizing stewardship across the watershed
Across the Lake Simcoe watershed, people are taking action every day — often quietly, and without recognition.
Some restore habitat.
Some protect water.
Some bring others along with them.
All of it matters.
For over 40 years, the Conservation Awards have recognized individuals, groups and organizations working to protect our land, water and communities. Their actions — big and small — add up to a healthier watershed.
Whether it’s a backyard project, a community initiative, or long-term stewardship, these awards highlight the many ways people are making a difference.
Thank you everyone who submitted nominations for the 2026 Conservation Awards. The nomination period is now closed. Please check back in late October to see the 2026 recipients.
Award Categories
Award categories reflect the different ways stewardship shows up across the watershed — from improving water and land, to strengthening communities and inspiring others.
Healthy Water
Presented to individuals and groups, this award recognizes those who have completed a project that improves, supports or protects the water quality in the Lake Simcoe watershed. Projects could include stormwater management, water conservation, streambank and shoreline restoration or stabilization, low impact development techniques and source water protection.
Healthy Land
This award celebrates improvement projects that help to support and protect natural heritage features including woodlands, wetlands and their functions; wildlife habitat; biodiversity and ecological restoration; soil erosion; and trail development.
Healthy Community
The Healthy Communities Award celebrates individuals or groups in our watershed who have completed a project that increases community connections and engagement through events, fairs and festivals; tree plantings; clean-ups and community programs. It also acknowledges significant traditional media or social media coverage; delivering innovative environmental programs or services; as well as sharing knowledge and information through campaigns.
Distinguished Achievement Award
This award is presented to individuals or groups for noteworthy achievements in innovation and/or leadership in the field of conservation, and is nominated by Conservation Authority staff.
Ernie Crossland Young Conservationist Award
Awarded to individuals and groups that are 30 years of age or younger and are involved in a significant leadership role in a conservation project or with a conservation-based group or organization.
George R. Richardson Award of Honour
Awarded to one recipient only, each year, to honour and recognize lifetime environmental achievement.
Who to Contact
Kyra Jessup
✆ 289-763-6594
✆ 1-800-465-0437 Toll free
✉ k.jessup@lsrca.on.ca
