Prairie Chapter Awards of Distinction
The Prairie Chapter wishes to recognize outstanding achievements in the arboriculture profession, as well as the efforts of individuals who positively impact arboriculture in the urban forest.
Please consider nominating someone for one or more of these award categories.
*Award recipients will be honoured at the ISA Prairie Chapter Annual Conference, on social media, and in The Prairie Arborist newsletter.
Award of Excellence
To honour companies, public institutions, and non-profit organizations that have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to advancing knowledge and awareness of horticulture and arboriculture within the Prairie Chapter region.
Eligibility:
- Private companies that promote arboricultural practices and education.
- Public institutions that integrate horticulture and arboriculture into their programs or initiatives.
- Non-profit organizations that lead community-based outreach, workshops, or educational campaigns advancing arboriculture and related fields.
Criteria for Selection:
- Contributions to increasing public and professional knowledge of arboriculture and horticulture.
- Developing creative initiatives that promote tree care, plant health, and sustainable green practices.
- Actively involving the community, students, and professionals in arboriculture-related activities.
Exceptional Volunteer Award
To recognize an individual whose outstanding dedication, passion, and service have made a lasting impact on the Prairie Chapter and the arboriculture community.
Eligibility:
- Open to Prairie Chapter members who have demonstrated consistent volunteerism and leadership.
- Must have significantly contributed time, energy, or expertise to chapter programs, events, or initiatives.
- Nominees should embody the spirit of collaboration, mentorship, and community that strengthens the chapter.
Selection Criteria:
- A sustained record of volunteer service to the chapter.
- Measurable benefits to members, programs, or the community.
- Serving as a role model who motivates others to engage and contribute.
Gold Leaf Award
To recognize individuals or organizations whose efforts have taken root through an exceptional dedication to tree planting. This honour celebrates initiatives that not only increase canopy cover but also cultivate healthier ecosystems and stronger communities.
Eligibility:
- Must have participated in large-scale planting projects or consistently planted 50–100 trees/shrubs annually.
- A minimum of 5 consecutive years of sustained commitment to tree planting is required.
Selection Criteria:
- Measurable ecological benefits. (improved biodiversity, carbon sequestration, or soil restoration).
- Active community engagement through participation, education, or awareness programs on planting and environmental stewardship.
- Innovative and sustainable practices, such as prioritizing native species and applying techniques that ensure long-term tree survival and growth.
Lifetime Achievement Award
To honour an individual who has demonstrated an extraordinary, lifelong commitment to advancing the mission, vision, and goals of the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA).
Eligibility:
- Nominees must have exhibited a career-long dedication to the arboriculture profession and the ISA community through leadership, innovation, volunteerism, and contributions that have positively impacted the organization and industry.
Selection Criteria:
- A demonstrated lifelong commitment to nurturing and growing ISA’s mission, vision, and goals.
- Active participation in ISA activities, including committee service, conferences, and initiatives that contribute to organizational success.
- Significant contributions to the field of arboriculture through research, education, advocacy, or innovative practices.
- Consistent and impactful volunteer service within ISA or the broader arboriculture community.
- A distinguished career rooted in ethical practice, professional expertise, and positive influence within the industry.
Maple Leaf Award
To honour individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to the advancement of arboriculture and urban forestry, inspiring others through leadership, knowledge, and innovation for a minimum of 10 years.
Eligibility:
- Demonstrated exceptional leadership and a commitment to the growth and development of arboriculture and urban forestry for 10 or more years.
Selection Criteria:
- Proven leadership that inspires others and nurtures growth in arboriculture and urban forestry.
- Unwavering passion and energy devoted to promoting and improving arboriculture and urban forestry.
- Dedication of more than 10 years of service.
Mentorship Award
To honour an ISA member who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to mentoring and guiding others, nurturing talent, and helping colleagues and peers grow personally and professionally within the arboriculture community.
Eligibility:
- Nominees must be active members who have consistently supported and inspired others through mentorship, demonstrating a passion for developing talent and fostering a thriving, collaborative environment.
Selection Criteria:
- Demonstrates a strong commitment to developing others’ skills and confidence, enabling them to explore new opportunities.
- Serves as a reliable source of guidance and support.
- Exhibits patience, encouragement, and a positive attitude in all mentorship and coaching efforts.
Past President Award
In recognition of exceptional leadership, dedication, and vision as the president of the Prairie Chapter, who has demonstrated efforts that have promoted the growth and success of the Prairie Chapter, leaving a lasting impact and setting a standard of excellence for future leaders.
Outgoing president who has completed a 2-year term as president, 2-year term as vice president and a minimum of 2 years as a provincial director.
Women in Arboriculture Award
To recognize and celebrate a woman who has made outstanding contributions to the arboriculture profession and community. This award honours individuals who inspire others, break barriers, and cultivate opportunities for future generations of women in the field.
Eligibility:
- Nominees must demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication to the arboriculture profession. They should embody a commitment to fostering diversity, supporting peers, and advancing opportunities for women within the industry.
Selection Criteria:
- Demonstrates significant contributions to arboriculture through leadership, innovation, education, or advocacy.
- Inspires and empowers other women to pursue careers and growth opportunities within arboriculture.
- Serves as a role model and mentor, encouraging the next generation of women arborists to flourish.
If you would like to nominate someone for an award please submit this Nomination Form.
*Nominations are accepted until September 30 of each year.