Award Nominations

At our annual member meeting IOGA typically provides recognition to those who have uniquely contributed to the industry in some way.  We have 3 awards we award on years we receive supported nominations

Resource Manager of the year

IOGA’s Resource Manager of the Year honors federal, state, tribal, or local agency staff who go above and beyond to support Idaho’s outfitting and guiding industry and the public’s access to world-class experiences.
Nominate a land, water, or wildlife professional whose work:

  • Protects resources while sustaining outfitted access and business certainty.

  • Solves problems quickly during high-stakes moments (fires, flows, closures, wildlife conflicts).

  • Brings real world solutions to permits/NEPA and communicates clearly and consistently.

  • Builds durable partnerships—trail/river projects, access improvements, safety initiatives.

  • Uses data-driven, transparent decisions that exemplify why Idaho is the destination for guided adventures.

  • Mentors newer staff and fosters a collaborative culture with outfitters and guides.

Nominate a resource manager


Outstanding guide of the year 

IOGA’s Guide of the Year honors a working guide—rookie or veteran—who creates uniquely amazing guest experiences and leaves people convinced that Idaho has the best guides in the world. This is the person who makes us all look our best.

  • Remarkable guest care: invests in every person, makes each guest feel seen and special, anticipates needs, delivers clear safety briefings, patient coaching, and thoughtful touches that create lifelong memories.

  • Interpretation & place connection: shares Idaho’s natural and cultural heritage uniquely well—engaging, accurate, and tailored to the moment—so guests leave with a deeper love for this place.

  • Professional mastery: sound judgment and technical skill (boat/stock/rig/gear), smooth camp systems, and strong stewardship/Leave No Trace.

  • Team leadership & mentorship: actively trains newer guides, lifts the crew, and models professionalism and inclusivity.

  • Reliability & integrity: communicates clearly, follows permits/regs, and represents the industry with pride.

Nominate a Guide


Honorary Lifetime Membership

IOGA’s Honorary Lifetime Membership recognizes a current or past IOGA member whose many years of service have uniquely strengthened Idaho’s outfitting and guiding community. This honor is typically awarded to individuals later in their careers or in retirement.

What we’re looking for

  • Sustained leadership and integrity that elevate Idaho as the destination for guided adventures

  • Mentorship that grows the next generation of guides and outfitters

  • Meaningful contributions to IOGA (board/committee work, initiatives, volunteerism)

  • Effective advocacy and partnership with agencies, landowners, and communities

  • Stewardship, safety, and guest-experience excellence that stand the test of time

Nominate someone for an Honorary Lifetime Membership