MUCC recognized as 2021 National Conservation Affiliate of the Year by NWF

lschultz • June 15, 2021

Coalition building brings together the hippies, hunters and hikers to vote yes on Proposal One of 2020

Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) was awarded the National Conservation Affiliate of the Year Award at the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) Wildlife Unite Conference June 12.

Since MUCC’s founding, the organization has been the Michigan statewide affiliate of NWF. The award recognizes an NWF affiliate organization for conservation accomplishments and contributions to collaborative efforts across the NWF Federation.

While the bulk of MUCC’s work stands on its own, MUCC’s work on Proposal One of 2020 helped cement MUCC’s receipt of this award, said Amy Trotter, MUCC executive director.

“With unanimous consent in our legislature and 84 percent of the popular vote on this constitutional amendment, Michigan’s Proposal One is perhaps the greatest conservation ballot victory in history,” Trotter said during her acceptance speech. “It isn’t commonplace that a singular outdoor issue elicits the collective support of hippies, hunters and hikers. But in 1976 and again in 2020, MUCC and its partners were able to prove that public lands are where we can all come together.” 

MUCC engages with NWF in many venues and on many different issues, but none have been as important as clean, fresh water for Michigan’s fish and wildlife. And the MUCC grassroots model has been carried to other NWF affiliates throughout the country.

“From thousands of pounds of invasive plants and waste removed from public lands and waterways to laws enshrined in the state constitution, Michigan United Conservation Clubs has strengthened the Michigan conservation landscape on every level imaginable,” said Collin O’Mara, president and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation. “Their successes – including helping to pass a ballot measure to fund Michigan’s public lands acquisition and stewardship through oil and gas lease subsidies in perpetuity – are a testament to the power of a diverse coalition of interests operating in unison. The conservation community should look to Michigan United Conservation Clubs as a standard for targeted grassroots advocacy and education and field campaigns.”  

According to NWF, The National Wildlife Federation Conservation Achievement Awards began in 1966. Since then, the National Wildlife Federation has celebrated individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to protecting wildlife through education, advocacy, communication and on-the-ground conservation. Previous honorees have included former Presidents Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton, First Ladies Lady Bird Johnson and Michelle Obama, and other national leaders, including U.S. Senator John McCain and filmmaker Robert Redford.

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Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) proudly honored outstanding individuals and organizations for their dedication to preserving Michigan’s natural resources at the 2025 Conservation Awards Banquet. The annual event recognizes those who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, advocacy, and service to conservation. Ron Olson – 50 Years of Service to Conservation Award With a remarkable career spanning five decades, Ron Olson has made a lasting impact on Michigan’s parks and outdoor recreation. As Chief of the Parks and Recreation Division for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Olson expanded the state park system, enhanced trail programs, and secured significant funding for infrastructure improvements. His leadership has shaped the future of Michigan’s outdoor spaces for generations to come. Ron Burris – President’s Award A dedicated leader within MUCC, Ron Burris played a pivotal role in restructuring the organization’s governance, ensuring a more effective policy and executive board structure. His efforts in promoting conservation education, community engagement, and safety initiatives—such as increasing AED availability in clubs—have strengthened MUCC’s impact across Michigan. Senator Sam Singh & Representative Graham Filler – Conservation Legislators of the Year Recognized for their bipartisan leadership in securing $1.9 million in funding for the Elsie Dam removal, Senator Singh and Representative Filler have demonstrated a commitment to conservation and ecological restoration. Their advocacy ensures the protection of Michigan’s waterways, fish habitats, and public safety. Grand Valley Cap N Ballers – Affiliate of the Year With a long-standing tradition of promoting historical shooting sports and conservation, Grand Valley Cap N Ballers (GVCNB) has been a key supporter of MUCC’s mission. Hosting major regional events and fundraisers, GVCNB has played a crucial role in supporting MUCC’s conservation efforts while preserving Michigan’s outdoor heritage. Mike Avery – Conservation Communicator of the Year A leading voice in outdoor media, Mike Avery has dedicated his career to educating and inspiring Michigan’s outdoor enthusiasts through his popular radio show and podcast, Mike Avery’s Outdoor Magazine. By spotlighting conservation leaders and critical environmental issues, Avery has significantly contributed to public awareness and advocacy for Michigan’s natural resources. MUCC extends its heartfelt congratulations to all award recipients for their outstanding contributions to conservation. Their dedication ensures that Michigan’s natural heritage remains protected for future generations. For more information on MUCC’s conservation efforts, visit mucc.org .
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