Nominate an Outstanding Steward in Marine, Coastal, or Riverine Habitat Conservation

Do you know someone who has demonstrated exceptional achievement and dedication to marine, coastal, or riverine habitat conservation?

NOAA's Office of Habitat Conservation is seeking nominations for the 2026 Dr. Nancy Foster Habitat Conservation Award. Nominations are due by June 1, 2026 . The nomination form (PDF, 5 pages) includes information on eligibility and how to apply. Nominees must reside in the United States or a U.S. territory.

History of the Award

NOAA established the Dr. Nancy Foster Habitat Conservation Award in 1997 to recognize and honor individuals for their valuable work in conserving marine, coastal, and riverine environments. The award is presented in honor of Dr. Foster's exceptional contributions and efforts to protect and restore these habitats.

Dr. Foster's Legacy

Dr. Foster, a marine biologist from Electra, Texas, served at NOAA for 23 years, leaving a lasting imprint on the agency. She joined NOAA in 1977, and NOAA Fisheries in 1986. There, she created the Office of Habitat Conservation. She served as acting Assistant Administrator and then Deputy Assistant Administrator of NOAA Fisheries before becoming Assistant Administrator of the NOAA National Ocean Service in 1997. Dr. Foster was the first recipient of the Foster Award. She passed away in June 2000, after creating a legacy as a pioneer and visionary in coastal and marine ecosystem conservation.

We continue to honor Dr. Foster's legacy, unique vision, and understanding of marine, coastal, and riverine ecosystems. We do so by recognizing today's outstanding stewards of habitat conservation. Past award winners include volunteers, scientists, journalists, teachers, administrators, and others who have made important contributions to the field.