Call for Nominations: Celebrate Outdoor Recreation Excellence
As we continue to build a resilient, inclusive, and thriving outdoor recreation economy and culture across the Western Slope, it’s time to shine a light on the people and organizations leading the way.
We’re calling on you—our industry colleagues, partners, and community champions—to help us recognize outstanding contributions by submitting nominations in the following categories:
Lifetime Achievement Award
Honoring a career of exceptional leadership, dedication, and impact in advancing outdoor recreation and stewardship.
- Dean Bressler
- Chris Herrman
- Chris Pipkin
- Jeff Bates
Business of the Year
Recognizing a business that goes beyond the bottom line—one that invests in community, leads through coordinated initiatives, and uplifts the local outdoor recreation ecosystem.
- ROAM Events
- QuikrStuff
- Adrenaline Driven Adventures
- Boneshaker Adventures
- Wiggy’s
- Wet Dreams River Supply
User Group of the Year
Celebrating grassroots leadership and collaboration by organizations like trail alliances, bike clubs, climbing groups, and more.
- Grand Mesa Nordic Council
- Dirt Mermaids
- Grand Valley Anglers
- The Eureka! McConnell Science Museum
Stewardship, Advocacy, or Conservation Group of the Year
Highlighting groups whose work in preservation, advocacy, and sustainable access ensures our outdoor spaces remain protected and accessible for generations to come.
- GVORC
- RiversEdge West
- The Confluence Center
- Outdoor Wilderness Lab- MCVSD-51
Most Impactful Initiative of the Year
From trail expansions to access equity projects to regional campaigns—this award honors a standout initiative making measurable impact.
- TrailFunds
- Monument Trail
- Skyway Station
- Grand Valley River Clean-Up Days
- 27 ½ Rd Clean-Up Day
- CSU Extension and the Agriwest Initiative
Volunteer of the Year
Recognizing an individual who gives their time, heart, and hands to move the outdoor recreation community forward.
- Tom Ela
- Matthew Morriseau
- Terri Ahern
- Lee Gelatt
- Dan Antonelli
- Mel Stockwell
- Dean Bressler
Nominate Today
Help us celebrate the passion, perseverance, and progress happening in our outdoor recreation community. Submit your nominations in the button above, or by THIS FORM by Friday, October 31st. Let’s lift up the leaders shaping the future of outdoor recreation.
Winners will be announced and recognized at the GVORC Industry Celebration & Awards on Friday, November 14th.
