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Gordon Eastman Grass Roots Award

Gordon Eastman Grass Roots Award

The late Gordon Eastman of "Eastman's Outdoor World" created the "Grass Roots Award" to be presented at WSF’s annual Sheep Show® Convention. His intention was to honor the hard-working members of our Chapters and Affiliates that get almost no recognition for their unending work toward the existence of North American wild sheep. Please send only one nomination per Chapter.

Jim Travis of the New Mexico WSF Chapter was the recipient of the 2026 Award. His plaque reads:

THE GORDON EASTMAN GRASS ROOTS AWARD
Presented to JIM TRAVIS

In recognition of Jim Travis, whose unwavering dedication to the Wild Sheep Foundation and the New Mexico Chapter has shaped every aspect of our mission. A leader, mentor, and 
tireless advocate, he has advanced conservation, fundraising, and community engagement for over 42 years. Jim organized and personally funded the first WSF Life Member Breakfast, creating a lasting tradition that continues to inspire. His vision and steadfast commitment have strengthened the wild sheep community. 

2026 Gordon Eastman Grass Roots Award winner Jim Travis

Criteria

The following criteria are necessary to qualify your candidate for this award:

  1. Individual’s name, address, phone number and a picture.
  2. Name of organization submitting nomination.
  3. Keep in mind that the "Grass Roots Award" is just that, a person who is not recognized by fame or fortune, but by sincere hard work dedicated to his/her Chapter or Affiliate.

Deadline to receive nominations materials from Chapter and Affiliate representatives is October 1st, annually.

Complete List of Gordon Eastman Grass Roots Recipients

2026 - Jim Travis - NM WSF
2025 - Sue Steffy (posthumously) - Eastern WSF
2024 - Mike Borel - CA WSF
2023 - Brian Solan - MT WSF
2022 - Lee Howard - UT
2020 - Dean & Dianne DiJenno - WY
2019 - Sandra Fields - FL
2018 - Darren Cooney - AB
2017 - David Alexander Marsh - BC
2016 - Clint Bentley - NV
2015 - Rocky & Tommy Best - CO
2014 - Ann Kulp (Eastern)
2013 - Steve Kellers - NV
2012 - George Houston - OR
2012 - Andy Stinson - NV
2011 - Mel Belding - NV
2011 - Dale Gaugler - PA
2011 - George Kerr - CA
2010 - David & Theresa Wetzel
2010 - Gary Thomas
2010 - Larry Jacobs
2010 - Lloyd Oldenburg
2009 - Pat Long
2008 - Jerry Walters
2007 - Chuck Woosley
2006 - Jim Weatherly
2005 - Brenton Scott
2003 - Tommy Caruthers
2001 - Garfield Thomas
2000 - Don Peay
1999 -  Bill Louderback
1998 - Oscar Carlson
1997 - Bill Hook
1996 - Leon & Lavelle Lesicka
1995 - John & Jane Babler
1994 - Pat & Gene Holloway
1993 - Ron Ball
1992 - Richard Mitchell
1991 - Bill Leech
1990 - Dean Bowdin
1989 - Tom Brown
1988 - Ed Pribyl

2026 Award Presentation
Coming Soon...