Eddie Bridges, Greensboro, N.C.

After years of volunteer public service for conservation—he proposed and helped develop the state waterfowl stamp program that has generated more than $5 million—Bridges (seated at right) founded the North Carolina Wildlife Habitat Fund in 1994. “We have no paid staff. We’re here because the work is so gratifying,” says Bridges, 78. The organization’s goal is to supplement underfunded state-run land acquisition and habitat preservation programs. They have already put $1 million toward local projects, including underwriting costs to keep a wildlife education center open to 3,000 monthly visitors.

Scott Seigfreid, North Mankato, Minn.

Seigfreid was instrumental in forming the Many Rivers chapter of The Prairie Enthusiasts, a nonprofit group devoted to land management and education. Seigfreid organizes prescribed burning and native grass planting for 15 parcels of prairie land encompassing 240 acres of southern Minnesota’s diminishing unfarmed habitat. “I know we can make an impact with very few dollars,” he says. “Organizations like ours are vital during this period of major state budget cuts.

Ryan Viehmeyer, Camp Point, Ill.

In less than a year, Viehmeyer has started the Golden Triangle chapter of Quail Forever, helped raise $50,000 for local habitat restoration with its members, and established multiple opportunities for youths to learn wingshooting and hunt upland birds. “Our chapter’s main focus is on education, because the sports and habitat won’t exist without these kids,” says Viehmeyer. This spring, he and his group will rehab a youth fishing pond’s dock in Siloam Springs State Park.