Trout Unlimited National Convention, Portland Maine, August 17, 2002

 

COMMUNICATIONS FOR COLDWATER CONSERVATION AWARD (for journalists, writers, and photographers who have contributed to broader public awareness of trout and salmon issues)

 

At its National Convention, Trout Unlimited recently announced the winner of this year's Communications for Coldwater Conservation Award.

According to TU, the honor for 2002 goes to an individual who is writing some of the nation’s best work on crucial trout conservation issues – journalist and author Michael Furtman.  Mike regularly writes for TROUT Magazine, Midwest Fly-Fishing, and other national and regional publications; he is also the author of several books, including Trout Country. 

In announcing the award, TU acknowledged that in recent years Furtman has written excellent articles on issues affecting trout including abuses by the cranberry industry, restoration of “coaster” brook trout, a variety of pollution topics, detrimental land use practices, and political power moves.  Mr. Furtman has never been afraid to speak out against abusers of our waters in his writings, and brings in thoughts from important writers to weave with his personal experiences to make readable and provocative essays.  He has also shown, as in his article “Habitat: Thinking Like a River” (Fall 1999 TROUT Magazine), the ability to bring advanced scientific concepts into general public awareness. 

Although Furtman was unable to attend the conference to receive the award, he sent a written acceptance in which he stated:

"I'm very sorry I can't be with you tonight to accept this award, for the fact that it comes from Trout Unlimited makes it especially meaningful.
 
Trout Unlimited is one of the best examples of citizen activists, backed by a strong national organization, doing much needed environmental work. Many of my stories involve TU chapters, and the passion that your members exhibit is what powers not only the stories, but also the restoration and protection of our fisheries.
 
If in any small way my journalistic efforts help to preserve trout and the wild places they live, then I will have considered it a job well done. The fact that you've recognized these efforts humbles me. Thank you, keep up the good fight, and don't let the bastards wear you down."   


 

(To read some of the trout articles credited for my receiving this award, click HERE.)