Alabama State Parks has opened nominations for the 10th annual Eagle Awards, a statewide program that celebrates volunteers, partners, and public leaders who help support and enhance the state’s parks.
Nominations are open through Jan. 3, 2026. Winners will be recognized during Eagle Awareness Weekend at Lake Guntersville State Park on Jan. 31, 2026. Anyone may submit a nomination.
“We recognize and appreciate that we have so many organizations and individuals who go above and beyond the call of duty to make Alabama State Parks better than ever,” said Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Commissioner Chris Blankenship.
“Eagle Awareness Weekend offers amazing programs, and it’s the perfect time to thank the Eagle Award winners and show our gratitude for their dedicated service to State Parks.”
The Eagle Awards program includes five categories designed to highlight contributors who support park operations, amenities, and community engagement. The categories are Elected Official, Community Partner, Park Partner, Volunteer in Parks (VIP), and Youth.
The Eagle Awards are part of the 40th annual Eagle Awareness Weekends, scheduled for Jan. 23–25 and Jan. 30–Feb. 1 at Lake Guntersville State Park. The events include live bird demonstrations, guided eagle-viewing trips, expert speakers, and activities showcasing the area surrounding Lake Guntersville.
Award categories include:
- Elected Official: Honors leaders who help parks fulfill their mission to preserve natural areas and expand public access.
- Community Partner: Recognizes chambers, tourism groups, and local organizations that support park success.
- Park Partner: Celebrates groups that provide or maintain amenities such as trails and outdoor facilities.
- Volunteer in Parks (VIP): Highlights volunteers who contribute through labor, planning, or systemwide service.
- Youth: Honors students (12th grade and under) who complete extraordinary projects benefiting state parks.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to attend the Eagle Awards ceremony several times, and I’m always inspired by the amazing work the winners perform for our parks,” said Alabama State Parks Director Matthew Capps.
“I’m so proud that this recognition program is now in its 10th year. We’re dedicated to making our State Parks System better than it’s ever been, and we couldn’t reach that goal without the help of so many individuals and organizations who partner with us.”
Alabama’s 21 state parks cover more than 50,000 acres across the state—from Gulf Coast beaches to the Appalachian foothills—and offer a wide range of recreation, camping, lodging, and resort amenities. The system operates primarily on visitor fees along with support from local communities and partners.
