OCCA seeks nominations for Conservationist of the Year awards

The Otsego County Conservation Association (OCCA) is accepting nominations for its “Conservationist of the Year” award for 2026.

Each year, OCCA awards the Conservationist of the Year to the individual, community group, nonprofit organization or business or government entity that has made an outstanding contribution to environmental protection, conservation or education in Otsego County. The Conservationist of the Year will be presented at OCCA’s annual dinner on Aug. 30 at Creek Side Station in Hartwick.

“The award celebrates those who make significant efforts to protect and improve the health of our communities and natural resources,” said Jeff O’Handley, OCCA’s interim executive director. “Otsego County is fortunate to have so many individuals and organizations that care so deeply about our environment.”

The award was established in 1989. Frederick V. Mecklenburg, who was one of OCCA’s founders and was deeply involved with both OCCA and environmental issues in the county, was named the first to receive the award. Since then, the award has been given to a wide variety of individuals and organizations. Last year, OCCA awarded Conservationist of the Year to Matt Albright and Holly Waterfield of the SUNY Oneonta Biological Field Station, in recognition of their contributions to environmental research, lake management and ecological education over many years.

OCCA is also accepting nomination forms for the Junior Conservationist of the Year. This award, established in 2025, recognizes youth for their involvement in conservation initiatives in the region. Cooperstown high school student Elias MacLeish was recognized as the first Junior Conservationist of the Year for his work revitalizing trails at Lacava Nature Center in Cooperstown and for his extensive volunteer efforts. All students up to undergraduate level are eligible for the award.

Nominations are due by Aug. 10. Forms for Conservationist of the Year and Junior Conservationist of the Year can be found at OCCA’s website, occainfo.org/conservationist-of-the-year. Winners will be selected by a subcommittee of OCCA’s Board of Directors and will be honored at the annual dinner.

Founded in 1968, Otsego County Conservation Association, Inc. is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the appreciation and sustainable use of Otsego County’s natural resources.