Lisa Busch, Executive Director of Sitka Sound Science center receives the Human Diversity Award at the 2018 annual OBFS meeting from Dr. Lara Roketenetz, Schoodic Institute, 2018. Photo courtesy of Philippe Cohen.

OBFS Advancing Equity Award

The award recognizes unique activities, programs, or approaches (funded or unfunded) that increase the involvement, engagement and sustainability of underrepresented groups in field science.

Mary Hufty Local Hero Award

Each year at its annual conference, the Organization of Biological Field Stations (OBFS) will recognize an individual who exemplifies the ideals of the organization and supports research, education, and outreach through personal and/or professional actions, particularly in the areas of biology, conservation, and/or ecology. The recipient of the award will be selected each year by the conference planning committee, with Board approval, and with the greatest input coming from the conference host, as the awardee is expected to be a member of the host institution’s local community.

OBFS Award for Distinguished Service to Field Science

This award is given occasionally to recognize exemplary service to OBFS. Nomination Information is found here - please send the nomination information to the President of OBFS (president@obfs.org)

Previous Distinguished Service Award winners:

• Philippe S. Cohen (2024) 

Friend of OBFS Award

Every few years, the OBFS Board of Directors presents the Friend of OBFS Award to an individual whose support and assistance have helped to further our mission and visibility on the world stage. 

Previous Friend of OBFS Winners:

• Peter McCartney (2023): An OBFS regular and former NSF Program Officer for the NSF Division of Biological Infrastructure's Field Stations and Marine Laboratories (FSML) program, Dr. McCartney helped many of OBFS's member stations secure financial resources for science and education, as well as design and build critical infrastructure and capacity.
• Mark Ruffalo (2017) the actor and activist was selected for his work promoting scientific literacy and environmental stewardship. Mr. Ruffalo has been a friend to OBFS, serving as a guest speaker for OBFS events and meetings in 2015 and 2016.
• Peter Connors (2016): Stalwart field station director and auctioneer at our annual meeting fundraiser. Decadal service on the finance committee, ensuring long-term sustainability of OBFS.
• Miles O’Brien (2015): First honoree. Scientific journalist and supporter of field based research. Miles was the guest speaker at our Nantucket friend-raising event in 2014 and spoke via Skype at the 2015 annual meeting.