Essex Region Conservation Authority, Pelee Wings Nature Store, and Point Pelee National Park, nominated by Jean Iron and Dave Milson for an Award of Special Merit
For their ongoing support of OFO Shorebird Nights and shorebird education at Hillman Marsh each spring. These organizations have contributed funds, promotions and opportunities for birders to join OFO volunteers and learn about shorebird migration. The Essex Region Conservation Authority is recognized for creating and maintaining habitat specifically for shorebirds. Point Pelee National Park has championed shorebird observation opportunities through their programming during the Festival of Birds and managing the 3-day Birding Pass program, in partnership with the Essex Regional Conversation Authority, allowing entry to the park and Hillman Marsh. Pelee Wings is recognized for their contributions to education through their support of the creation of the shorebird blind at Hillman, and providing optics and guides during the shorebird viewing opportunities.
Deryl Nethercott, nominated by Mike Burrell
For his efforts in almost single-handedly sharing photos and information for all of Lambton County for the BirdingHotspots.org initiative.
George Naylor, nominated by Bruce Mackenzie
For his efforts in protecting the Cliff Swallow colony on the Hwy 6 Bridge in Caledonia, ON.
Marion and Norm Maier, nominated by Brett Fried
For graciously hosting birders to view the Harris’s Sparrow that appeared at their home in Reidsville, ON on January 19, 2024.
Eric Baldo, nominated by Jack Alvo
For his work as lead counter at Toronto’s Whimbrel Watch at Colonel Sam Smith Park in Toronto, ON.
Scarborough Environmental Association, nominated by Lauren Pragg
For their work arranging several naturalist led bird walks throughout Scarborough to encourage new birders to take up the hobby.
Igor Kabic, nominated by Aaron Hywarren
For his efforts with the OFO Ambassador Program supporting the Western Tanager that visited Ottawa, ON from January – March 2024.
Michele Carnerie, nominated by Susan Nagy
For hosting birders to view the Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch at her home in Aylmer, ON on November 12, 2023.
Karen McDonald, Andrea Chreston and Liam Graham, nominated by Chip Weseloh
For designing, seeking expert opinion and implementing a science-based plan to protect the first pair of nesting Bald Eagles in the City of Toronto amid the demand and desire for control of co- nesting Double-crested Cormorants.
Brian Gibbon, nominated by Jack Alvo
For 12 years of excellent service as an OFO Board member and Treasurer.
Mike McCabe, nominated by Paul F.J. Eagles
As Engineering Manager of Rogers Media Inc., he agreed to delay the grassland harvest at the Rogers Radio Tower Field adjacent to the Grass Lake/Paris Cranberry Bog Reserve in North Dumfries Township in the Region of Waterloo, ON until after July 14, 2024 to enable successful nesting.