Volunteer Awards

In May 2023, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recognized Refuge volunteers for the outstanding contributions they have made during 2022. The Friends of Blackwater sponsored the awards dinner held outdoors under the pavilion at the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center. During 2022, 109 volunteers contributed 8,454 hours of their time to the Refuge! Rick Abend of Madison, MD, received the 2022 Volunteer of the Year Award for his dedicated service to the Refuge. Rick has been a steady force at Blackwater for 17 years and has served as President of the Friends of Blackwater for nearly 10 years. He is an unwavering supporter and advocate, and makes a tangible difference on the Refuge, having done everything from installing bike racks and electrical lines to building wooden bridges and boardwalks, among many other things. Visitors to the Refuge benefit every day from the talents and dedication that Rick brings to the Refuge. See our newsletter (PDF, 681 KB) for more information on all the volunteer awards.

Congratulations to all the volunteers who received recognition for their contributions to Blackwater NWR!

Volunteers play a critical role in helping Blackwater NWR fulfill its mission. Please contact Michele Whitbeck at 410-221-8157 or Michele_Whitbeck@fws.gov to learn how you can volunteer.