Golden Bear Awards
The California State Park and Recreation Commission (SPRC) relaunched the Golden Bear Awards in 2019. The awards, presented annually, celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals and organizations.
Nomination Criteria
Nominee has, through their work for, with, or in support of the California Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), demonstrated leadership and contributed significantly toward the Department's mission: to provide for the health, inspiration, and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state's extraordinary biological diversity, protecting its most valued natural and cultural resources, and creating opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation.
Eligibility
Nominee is a past or present DPR employee, volunteer, partner organization, member of a partner organization, legislator, or member of the public who works for, with, or in support of the California Department of Parks and Recreation.
Award Categories
Each year, up to five awards will be presented, one in each of the following geographic categories:
- Statewide
- Central Division
- Coastal Division
- Northern Division
- Desert Division
NOTE: You can submit a nomination form even if you don't know which category applies to your nominee.
Nomination Process
Submit nominations via the Golden Bear Award nomination form.
- You can "Save and Return Later" if you need to complete the form at a later time.
- A copy of the completed nomination form will be sent to your email address.
- You can, but are not required to, submit up to three photos to support your nomination.
Award Schedule
The nomination window for the 2022 Golden Bear Awards closes March 31, 2023. Recipients will be selected by the SPRC Golden Bear Award subcommittee and announced at the June 2, 2023, meeting of the SPRC.
Starting with the 2023 Golden Bear Awards, the nomination window will be announced at the second SPRC public meeting of the year, and the awards will be presented at the final SPRC meeting of the year. For exact dates, refer to the meeting website.