STATE COLLEGE — Adam M. Smith was awarded the 2024 Outstanding Coldwater Conservationist-Professional by the Pennsylvania Council of Trout Unlimited, a nonprofit dedicated to conserving, protecting and restoring coldwater fisheries and their watersheds in Pennsylvania.
The award is given to an individual who has made “an exceptional effort” to fulfill the mission of Trout Unlimited, according to a statement from the Spring Creek Chapter of Trout Unlimited.
Smith works as a biologist for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. He also is the leader of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Partners program for Pennsylvania, which is headquartered in State College.
“The Partners for Fish and Wildlife have restored more than 499 miles of riparian and streambank in Pennsylvania over the past 20 years,” the statement shared. “He is a member of the Spring Creek chapter and has been the implementing arm on seven major projects in the Spring Creek/Bald Eagle Watershed in the past 10 years alone.”
Smith also assists the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, Penns Valley Conservation Association, Pheasants Forever, Clearwater Conservancy and more.
Locally, Smith helps with the Millbrook Marsh Nature Centre’s Earth Day event, teaches about pollinator plots at local elementary schools and works with the public during Penn State Ag Progress Day.
“Adam is a consummate leader and teacher,” the statement shared. “The U.S. Fish and Wildlife) Partners program hires summer interns to assist in project implementation on a regular basis and Adam spends time mentoring them to help them become better stewards of the environment. Adam is also very active in his local community efforts (College Township) to improve stream and habitat.”
For more information on Pennsylvania Council of Trout Unlimited, visit patrout.org.
