New Department Award Recognizes Black Bass Conservation Efforts

Tournaments Recognized for Best Practices

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announces a new award to help promote black bass conservation.

The Director’s Black Bass Conservation Award will recognize bass fishing tournament directors who exemplify conservation with special recognition from the department and eligibility to receive fishing supplies.

The purpose of the award is to spread knowledge of black bass conservation and watercraft safety, in an effort preserve the sport for years to come.

The award also recognizes organizers who include youth anglers in their sportfishing tournaments.

“This award aims to educate, promote and recognize the importance of black bass conservation,” said biologist Joseph Love, who developed the new recognition program. “The best practices we are highlighting will improve the survival rate of fish released, and help assure the sport’s popularity in Maryland, now and well into the future.”

In order to qualify for the award, tournament directors should adhere to the department’s award criteria and submit an application by May 1, 2018. Applicants will be notified of their standing by June 1, 2018, with awards, plaques and supplies distributed by Aug. 1, 2018.