The New York State Conservation Council, Inc. (NYSCC) is asking for residents' help in identifying New York state's outstanding conservationists for its 28th Awards Program. This is an ideal opportunity to honor those who have worked long and hard for the area's natural environment and who may not have been recognized for their efforts.

Award categories include:

• Volunteer Conservationist - For outstanding conservation achievements and significant contributions by a volunteer to the cause of conservation of the state's natural environment.

• Professional Conservationist - For outstanding conservation achievements by a professional in any field, including but not limited to fish, wildlife, forest, water, air or soil management.

• Youth Conservationist -For a youth or group of youths under the age of 19 who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and accomplishments in some phase of conservation.

• Conservation Educator - For an individual (professional or volunteer) who has exhibited outstanding achievement in educating others in conservation. Nominees should have demonstrated recognized methods directed toward the wise use and management of our natural environment.

• Outdoor Education Program - For programs which exhibit worthwhile efforts in conservation awareness. These programs may be of any size or duration. Be sure to include age levels of participants.

• NYSCC President's Award - For outstanding achievement by a member club.

• Outstanding NYSCC Member - Awarded to one council member who does more than just attend meetings, works for the betterment of NYSCC and educates sportsmen and the general public about the council, promotes the council's message and secures funding.

• Lifetime Achievement -Awarded to individuals who have dedicated many years to working for conservation and the interests of sportsmen, women and youth.

The NYSCC Awards Committee reserves the right to change nomination categories based on information presented. In the event nominations fail to meet the requirements for state-wide recognition, the awards committee will have the prerogative to withhold any award.

Nominations are open to residents or groups in New York state, both professional and volunteer and may be made by an individual, a club or an organization. No affiliation with the NYSCC is required.

Nominations must be for individuals or groups that have been active during the past year and have exhibited ongoing interest in conservation.

When submitting a nomination, furnish complete information about the nominee by making the nomination informative and to the point - give facts, dates and accomplishments which support that nomination. Be sure all nominations include a cover sheet with the following information: Award category; name, address and phone number for the nominee and the nominator, and supporting documentation.

The deadline to submit a nomination to the NYSCC office is Aug. 15. Mail applications to: NYSCC, 8 E. Main St., Ilion, NY 13357.

Awards will be presented at the 75th anniversary/annual meeting of the New York State Conservation Council set to be held Sept. 19.