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Awards

CRITERIA AND INFORMATION FOR AWARDS
Past Award Winners

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Professional Awards

 

CCTWS Special Recognition Award

The CCTWS Special Recognition Award is intended to recognize individual(s) whose unwavering dedication, exceptional service, and profound influence has left a lasting mark on the CCTWS. Nominees must be either a current or past member of the CCTWS. The recipient of this award has exemplified the highest standards of commitment, integrity, and leadership throughout their journey with the CCTWS. This award recognizes not only years of involvement, but also the depth of contribution – someone who has generously shared their knowledge and experience, mentored others with patience and wisdom, and consistently uplifted other members of the CCTWS. Through their guidance, they have shaped future leaders and fostered a culture of growth, respect, and excellence within the CCTWS. This award may, but is not required to, be conferred annually.

 


CCTWS Professional Achievement in Wildlife Management Award

The Professional Achievement in Wildlife Management Award is an award intended to recognize
individual(s) with significant achievement in Wildlife Management in Colorado. Wildlife Management may include administration, law enforcement, conservation, restoration, monitoring, game management, etc. Nominees must be either a current or past member of the CCTWS. The recipient of this award has demonstrated exceptional professional accomplishments that have advanced the field of Wildlife Management in Colorado. Through
leadership, innovation, and sustained contributions, they have had a meaningful impact on the stewardship and understanding of Colorado’s wildlife resources. This individual embodies a commitment to scientific excellence, ethical practices, and collaborative approaches that benefit both wildlife and the communities that depend on them. Their work stands as a model of dedication and professionalism, and they have earned the respect of peers, partners, and the public alike.

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CCTWS Professional Achievement in Wildlife Sciences Award

The Professional Achievement in Wildlife Sciences Award is an annually conferred award intended to recognize individual(s) with significant achievement in Wildlife Sciences in Colorado. Wildlife Sciences may include ecology, animal and avian biology, wildlife diseases, population dynamics, field research, conservation, etc. Nominees must be either a current or past member of the CCTWS. The recipient of this award has demonstrated outstanding contributions to the advancement of Wildlife Science through rigorous research, innovative methodologies, and a
commitment to scientific integrity. Their work has significantly enhanced understanding of wildlife populations, ecosystems, and the complex interactions that shape Colorado’s natural heritage. This individual exemplifies excellence in scientific inquiry and application, and their efforts have informed management decisions, conservation strategies, and policy development within Colorado.

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Jim Olterman Award for Professional Achievement in Wildlife Management

The Jim Olterman Award for Professional Achievement in Wildlife Management is intended to honor and recognize a practicing or retired individual who develops, applies, administers, or completes an especially significant program of management (wildlife and habitat), education, research, administration, or law enforcement that results in an outstanding contribution to wildlife resources in Colorado. The Jim Olterman Award recognizes achievement in Wildlife Management that have normally received, or are worthy of, statewide recognition. Nominees may be a member or non-member of the CCTWS.

 

Jim was a dedicated wildlife biologist, pilot, and law enforcement officer for the Division of Wildlife (now Colorado Parks and Wildlife) whose passion for Colorado’s wildlife shaped
landmark conservation efforts, including bighorn sheep restoration, lynx reintroduction, and habitat protection across the western slope. Known for his deep knowledge, southern charm, and fearless advocacy, Jim left a lasting legacy through his leadership, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to wildlife until his final day in the field. This award may, but is not required to, be conferred annually.

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Douglas L. Gilbert Award for Professional Achievement in Wildlife Sciences

The Douglas L. Gilbert Award for Professional Achievement in Wildlife Sciences is the CCTWS highest award. The Douglas L. Gilbert Award is intended to honor and recognize a practicing or retired individual whose achievements in Wildlife Sciences have normally received, or are worthy of, national recognition. Nominees may be a member or non-member of the CCTWS.

 

Dr. Gilbert was a visionary wildlife biologist, educator, and mentor whose groundbreaking work in public relations and natural resources helped shape the field’s human dimensions decades
ahead of its time. A dedicated professor, leader, and advocate for professionalism in wildlife science, Dr. Gilbert’s legacy endures through the countless students he inspired and the profound impact he had on conservation across Colorado and the nation. This award may, but is not required to, be conferred annually.

 

 

CCTWS Blown Blunderbuss Award

The Blown Blunderbuss Award is intended to acknowledge and recognize the most humorous blunder. Blunders may include a misadventure in the field, a memorable communication mix-up, an unforgettable equipment failure, or even unexpected outcomes from well-intentioned plans. This lighthearted award celebrates those moments when things didn’t quite go as expected – but left everyone with a good story and a good laugh. Nominees may be individual(s) or organizations and either member(s) or non-member(s) of the CCTWS. Nominees should be able to laugh at themselves, demonstrate humility, and embrace the unpredictable nature of working in wildlife science and management.

 


Nominating is easy!

Simply provide the name, position/title, and email address of the person you are
nominating plus no more than a two-page description of why they deserve a professional award.
 

Nominations are due to Jeff Henderson (henderson@pinyon-env.com) by December 15th, 2025.
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Student Awards

 

 

Allen Anderson Award for Outstanding Wildlife Student

The Allen Anderson Award for Outstanding Wildlife Student is intended to recognize an outstanding undergraduate student at a Colorado college or university. Allen Anderson was a wildlife biologist for the Division of Wildlife (now Colorado Parks and Wildlife) whose landmark research on mule deer and puma in Colorado helped shape modern understanding of their ecology. A man of deep conviction, resilience, and integrity, Allen was also a passionate mentor, respected for his dedication to science, his love of the outdoors, and his unwavering commitment to excellence.

 

Any undergraduate student is eligible to receive the Allen Anderson Award; however, preference will be given to students in wildlife and wildlife related programs. Any professional may nominate students. The student’s transcripts and resume are required as part of the submission materials, which may necessitate involvement of the student in the nomination process. Nominations will be evaluated with respect to academic excellence, applied
wildlife-related experience, and extracurricular activities. The award will consist of a personalized award plaque, inclusion of the student’s name and year of award on a traveling perpetual plaque (which will be displayed at the student’s educational institution for one year), and a wildlife-related book that the CCTWS will select. This award may, but is not required to, be conferred annually.


Nomination Procedure:

  1. A current transcript of all completed coursework.

  2. A resume describing the student’s extracurricular wildlife-related activities, including employment, volunteer
    work, participation and service in wildlife-related organizations, or self-directed activities. The resume
    should include an email address, mailing address, and telephone number.

  3. Two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the student’s wildlife activities.

  4. All materials must be submitted to Jeff Henderson (henderson@pinyon-env.com) by December 15th, 2025

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Jim Olterman Scholarship 

The Jim Olterman Scholarship, in partnership with Robin Olterman, is intended to honor Jim Olterman and his contributions to Colorado’s wildlife legacy. Jim was a dedicated wildlife biologist, pilot, and law enforcement officer for the Division of Wildlife (now Colorado Parks and Wildlife) whose passion for Colorado’s wildlife shaped landmark conservation efforts, including bighorn sheep restoration, lynx reintroduction, and habitat protection across the western slope. Known for his deep knowledge, southern charm, and fearless advocacy, Jim left a lasting
legacy through his leadership, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to wildlife until his final day in the field. The Jim Olterman Scholarship Award is offered to encourage and support an upper-level student at a Colorado college or university in the pursuit of a career in wildlife biology and/or management. The student must be a member of the CCTWS or TWS when applying and by December 2025, the student must have completed two-thirds of the credits required for graduation. The recipient will receive a $1,500 scholarship and inclusion of the
student’s name and year of award on a traveling perpetual plaque (which will be displayed at the student’s educational institution for one year). This award may, but is not required to, be conferred annually.


Application Procedure:

  1. A current resume.

  2. A current transcript (unofficial transcripts are acceptable) indicating your current number of credits and grade point average.

  3. Two letters of reference. One reference shall be from a professor familiar with your academic capabilities and accomplishments. The second reference shall be from a supervisor whom you worked for in a natural resources-related position (volunteer work is acceptable).

  4. A short essay (1-2 pages in length) describing (1) your interests in the biological field, (2) your career goals and how they relate to wildlife management, and (3) how you would use the award to further your professional development.

  5. All materials must be submitted to Jeff Henderson (henderson@pinyon-env.com) by December 15th 2025.

Small Grants

Management and Research Grant (Closed for 2025)

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Congratulations to the 2025 grant winners:

  • Travis Rainey, CSU

  • Eliza Cash, CSU Pueblo

  • Laura Farnsworth, CU Denver

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REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS The purpose of the CCTWS Small Grants Program is to encourage projects that promote the wise management and conservation of wildlife in Colorado. The results of these projects should have direct application to wildlife management and/or research.

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GUIDELINES

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  1. For 2025, the chapter is offering one grant for $1000 to a project that focuses on research and management or a project that focuses on wildlife education occurring in Colorado. One grant will be awarded to a research and management project or one grant will be awarded to an education project. The chapter is accepting applications from both members and student members of the chapter. Student applications must have a letter from their sponsor or faculty advisor authorizing the work. The faculty letter must be included in the application. Grants are awarded annually, therefore, successful applicants must reapply each year for future funding.

  2. A written proposal should not exceed 2 single-spaced typewritten pages. Text must include contact information, title, a statement of purpose, project objectives, methods, study area, target species and/or audience, project duration, and benefits to wildlife in Colorado. An itemized budget must be included and a literature citations page should be included, if applicable, but do not count toward the page limit. Other sources of support for the project must be identified in the budget.

  3. Subcontracting is not allowed. Grantees will be expected to obtain any necessary permits.

  4. The grant may be used for travel (within Colorado) to/from study sites, subsistence (overnight stay) while in the field, equipment and supplies. Salaries and administrative overhead expenses are ineligible. Durable field goods, such as cameras, computers, GPS units, or surveying equipment purchased as a part of the grant award, will become property of the agency/business or university/faculty advisor identified in the letter of support.

  5. Proposals must be received by November 13, 2025. All proposals are reviewed by a CCTWS advisory committee of natural resource professionals and ranked on the basis of
    (a) quality of project, (b) quality of the application (c) meeting the goals of the CCTWS Small Grants Program, and (d) budget needs. With respect to budget needs, on small projects CCTWS seeks to fund projects where our funding contributes significantly to the budget of the project. For large projects, applicants should show that additional sources of financial support have been secured or are likely.  Projects submitted by CCTWS members will be given a higher priority. The top proposals from each group will be sent to the executive board for final review. Grants will be awarded by December 8, 2025 and winners are encouraged to present their projects at winter CCTWS meetings.

  6. Project leaders will submit a 1 to 2-page report summarizing the results of the project to the CCTWS executive board. Also, an article summarizing the results of the project must be submitted for inclusion in the Chapter newsletter. Grant recipients are encouraged to do an oral presentation or poster at the annual CCTWS winter meeting. The name of the Chapter should be acknowledged as a financial supporter on any final reports or publications.

  7. Please use this form to apply for a Research and Management Grant  Research and Management Small Grant Application (click here)

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Education Grant (Closed for 2025)

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No education grant proposal were received in 2025

 

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS The purpose of the CCTWS Small Grants Program is to encourage projects that promote the wise management and conservation of wildlife in Colorado. The results of these projects should have direct application to wildlife education.

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GUIDELINES

  1. The grant program consists of one $1000 dollar award for wildlife education work occurring in Colorado. For 2025, the chapter is offering one grant for $1000 for a project that focuses on research and management or a project that focuses on wildlife education. One grant will be awarded to a research and management project or one grant will be awarded to an education project. The chapter is accepting applications from both members and student members of the chapter. Student applications must have a letter from their sponsor or faculty advisor authorizing the work. The faculty letter must be included in the application. Applications must pertain to wildlife specifically, applications on general natural resources or environmental programs will not be accepted. Grants are awarded annually, therefore successful applicants must reapply each year for future funding.

  2. A written proposal should not exceed 2 single-spaced typewritten pages. Text must include contact information, title, a statement of purpose, project objectives, methods, location, target audience, project duration, and benefits to wildlife in Colorado. An itemized budget must be included and a literature citations page should be included, if applicable, but do not count toward the page limit. Other sources of support for the project must be identified in the budget.

  3. Subcontracting is not allowed. Grantees will be expected to obtain any necessary permits.

  4. The grant may be used for travel (within Colorado) to/from study sites, subsistence (overnight stay) while in the field, equipment and supplies. Salaries and administrative overhead expenses are ineligible. Durable field goods, such as cameras, computers, GPS units, or surveying equipment purchased as a part of the grant award, will become property of the agency/business or university/faculty advisor identified in the letter of support.

  5. Proposals must be received by November 13, 2025. All proposals are reviewed by a CCTWS advisory committee of natural resource professionals and ranked on the basis of
    (a) quality of project, (b) quality of the application (c) meeting the goals of the CCTWS Small Grants Program, and (d) budget needs. With respect to budget needs, on small projects CCTWS seeks to fund projects where our funding contributes significantly to the budget of the project. For large projects applicants should show that additional sources of financial support have been secured or are likely. Projects submitted by CCTWS members will be given a higher priority. The top proposals from each group will be sent to the executive board for final review. Grants will be awarded by December 8, 2025.

  6. Please use this form to apply for an education grant Education Grant Application (click here)

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Please note, availability of these funds is dependent on the annual budget and if adequate funds exist a call for proposals will be issued in the Fall CCTWS Newsletter.

 

CCTWS Travel Grant (Closed for 2025)

 

Congratulations to our 2025 winner: Becky Ruzicka, post-doctoral researcher at CSU

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The Colorado Chapter of the Wildlife Society is now accepting applications for its Travel Grant Program. The purpose of the CCTWS Travel Grants Program is to assist with travel costs for CCTWS members attending meetings or workshops that further their professional knowledge and benefit management and conservation of wildlife in Colorado. CCTWS will award travel grants ranging from $250$-$1000 to assist with the travel costs associated with attending a conference or attending a virtual conference.  CCTWS has a budget of $1000 for fall travel grants.  Therefore- one or several grants may be awarded not to exceed a total of $1000.  The applications guidelines are as follows:

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  • Identify the training opportunity, meeting, conference, or virtual conference that would be helpful for your occupation or education as a wildlife professional or student CCTWS member.

  • Type up a ½ to 1-page description of the meeting, telling the CCTWS Board the goals of the conference or training and describing how you would like to use this experience for your occupation or education. Be sure to explain how this meeting would be a valuable contribution to your employment or education as a Wildlife Professional.

  • Include your name and contact information (phone number and email).

  • If seeking assistance for a virtual conference, please include the registration cost

  • Only current members of the Colorado Chapter of the Wildlife Society are eligible for these grants.

  • Applications for Travel grants are due by July 1st. Winners will be notified by July 20th.

  • Please submit applications using this form.

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Please note, availability of these funds is dependent on the annual budget and if adequate funds exist a call for proposals will be issued in the Spring CCTWS Newsletter.

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