The Izaak Walton League was founded in 1922 with the mission to conserve outdoor America for future generations. It aims for the purity of water, clarity of air, and wise stewardship of the land and its resources. Intent on preserving natural beauty and wildlife, it promotes understanding of nature and the value of woodlands, open spaces, and wildlife conservation through public policy initiatives and conservation programs.
The Minnesota Division of the Izaak Walton League offers several awards recognizing individuals and groups for their contributions to conservation and environmental education. These include the IWLA Distinguished Service Award for exceptional long-term service, the Dr. Walter Breckenridge Award for teaching the value of natural resources, the Ed Franey Outdoor Writer and Conservation Media Award for professionals in conservation media, the Sigurd F. Olson Conservation Award for outstanding contributions to natural resource preservation in Minnesota, the IWLA Stewardship Awards for noteworthy project work and community service, the Ray Haik Watershed District Award highlighting contributions to watershed district establishment, and the Dave Zentner Minnesota Defenders Award for chapters meeting specific conservation and community engagement criteria.