National Wildlife Refuge Association Presents
2026 National Wildlife Refuge Awards
Celebrating the people and partnerships whose dedication protects wildlife, restores habitat, and strengthens the national wildlife refuges we love.
Meet The 2026 Honorees
The People Behind The Places Wildlife Calls Home
Every day, dedicated people across the National Wildlife Refuge System go above and beyond for wildlife and the communities connected to our national wildlife refuges. This year, we're honoring four exceptional recipients whose leadership, creativity, and service are making a lasting difference.
Brian Benedict
Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge | Maine
For more than three decades, Brian Benedict has helped protect Maine's seabird nesting islands through land conservation, habitat restoration, scientific research, and strong partnerships. His leadership has secured important nesting habitat and sustained the teams doing demanding fieldwork along Maine's coast.
Read Brian's Story
Steve Huhnke
Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge Complex | California & Oregon
Steve Huhnke brings technical expertise and resourceful problem-solving to some of the Klamath Basin's toughest water management and habitat challenges. From returning water to drought-stricken wetlands to restoring critical infrastructure, his work helps sustain migratory birds and the refuge crews caring for their habitat.
Read Steve's Story
Greg Sanderson
Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge | Ohio
Since 2016, Greg Sanderson has shared his time and decades of technical experience with Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge. From repairing essential infrastructure and maintaining trails to helping wildlife cameras bring refuge habitats into people's homes, his dependable service shows the extraordinary difference one volunteer can make.
Read Greg's Story
Association Of The Friends Of The Wichitas
Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge | Oklahoma
The Friends of the Wichitas have funded more than $580,000 in refuge projects since 2017. Through volunteer service, education programs, habitat work, and a lasting partnership with refuge staff, the group helps people connect with the Wichita Mountains and turns community support into improvements for wildlife and visitors.
Read The Friends' StoryAbout The National Wildlife Refuge Awards
Presented annually by the National Wildlife Refuge Association since 1994, the National Wildlife Refuge Awards recognize the refuge managers, employees, volunteers, and Refuge Friends groups who strengthen the National Wildlife Refuge System. Their work protects wildlife, restores ecosystems, supports refuge operations, and helps communities connect with nature.