The Alabama State Parks Division has opened nominations for the 10th annual Eagle Awards, a program celebrating individuals and organizations that have made exceptional contributions to Alabama’s State Parks system.

According to a news release, online nominations are being accepted at www.alapark.com/eagle-awards through Jan. 3, 2026. Winners will be honored during the Eagle Awareness Weekend at Lake Guntersville State Park on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026.

“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 in the release. “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 feature five categories: Elected Official, Community Partner, Park Partner, Volunteer in Parks (VIP) and Youth, which honors students in 12th grade or younger. Anyone can submit a nomination online.

This year’s ceremony coincides with the 40th anniversary of Eagle Awareness Weekends at Lake Guntersville State Park, an event known for live bird demonstrations, guided eagle safaris and educational programs highlighting the park’s wildlife and natural scenery. Two weekends are scheduled for 2026 — Jan. 23-25 and Jan. 30-Feb. 1 — with the Eagle Awards presented during the second weekend’s festivities.

Each award category recognizes a distinct form of service to the parks:

Elected Official: Honors a public official who supports the mission to preserve natural areas, operate recreational facilities and promote environmental education.

Community Partner: Recognizes local organizations, chambers of commerce, tourism groups and businesses that strengthen ties between parks and their surrounding communities.

Park Partner: Celebrates groups that enhance park amenities such as trails or recreational facilities through collaboration and shared resources.

Volunteer in Parks (VIP): Acknowledges individuals who give time, labor or expertise to improve one or more parks across the system.

Youth: Highlights young people who demonstrate extraordinary commitment to improving parks, often through scouting or school projects.

“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.”