AWARDS

PALMETTO AWARDS

Once a year, the FNPS bestows various awards to members and chapters for their contributions to our mission. The Palmetto Awards were established in 1984 to further the mission of FNPS by encouraging and acknowledging the contributions to conservation FL's native habitats via different activities. While secrecy isn’t a requirement, it’s always nice to surprise the awardee when the award is announced.

Green Palmetto Award

The Green Palmetto Award is given to members who make major contributions to the Society through service, education, or conservation. Those awarded are nominated by chapters or members, and the Board of Directors makes the final choice. Current FNPS state board members are not eligible for Green Palmetto awards.

Outstanding Chapter of the Year Award

The Outstanding Chapter of the Year Award is given to chapters with outstanding efforts towards the mission during the preceding year(s).

Silver Palmetto Award

The Silver Palmetto Award is given to FNPS members, usually Board members, chosen by the FNPS President. They typically go to those who have made a major contribution to the functioning of the Society.

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Recognition: We will announce and celebrate award winners on our social media, website, annual meeting, and in our publications.

Contact: Cherice Smithers

Contact Email: csmithers@fnps.org

Application Deadline: May 15, 2026

OTHER RECOGNITION AWARDS

Mentor Award

Created in 1995, the Mentor Award recognizes distinguished individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the science and practice of native plant preservation, conservation and restoration. This award is the highest honor the Society can bestow and is reserved for lifelong or career-long contributions.

Any member can make a Mentor Award nomination. Selection of Mentor Award winners is by a vote of the FNPS Board of Directors. Here’s a not so subtle hint: while secrecy isn’t a requirement, it’s always nice to surprise the awardee at the time the award is announced.

Recognition: We will announce and celebrate award winners on our social media, website, annual meeting, and in our Palmetto publication, which is circulated to over 6000 people. Additionally, Mentor Award winners will receive a physical award to honor this accomplishment.

Nominations must be submitted via the linked form above. If you have any questions about this award or the submission process, please contact the Communications Director or the President of the Society.

Contact: Cherice Smithers

Contact Email: csmithers@fnps.org

Application Deadline: May 15, 2026

Emerging Leaders Under 30

The Florida Native Plant Society (FNPS) Emerging Leaders Under 30 Recognition celebrates the exceptional contributions of young leaders and rising stars in the field of native plant conservation, education, and awareness in Florida. This prestigious recognition honors individuals under the age of 30 who have demonstrated outstanding dedication, innovation, and impact in their work. Nominees should be passionate about native plant conservation and have a track record of significant contributions to the field. 

The selection criteria for the FNPS Under 30 Award include:

• Leadership: Nominees should demonstrate exceptional leadership qualities, such as the ability to inspire and motivate others, build partnerships, and create positive change.
• Innovation: Nominees should have a history of developing and implementing innovative approaches to native plant conservation.
• Impact: Nominees should have a measurable impact on native plant conservation in Florida, such as through their research, education, or advocacy efforts.
• Commitment: Nominees should be deeply committed to native plant conservation and have a vision for the future of the field.

In addition to the general criteria, the FNPS Emerging Leaders Under 30 Recognition also considers the following factors:

• Diversity: The FNPS is committed to fostering diversity in the field of native plant conservation. Nominees from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.
• Collaboration: Nominees who have collaborated with others to achieve their conservation goals will be given special consideration.
• Mentorship: Nominees who have mentored or inspired other young people in the field of native plant conservation will be given special consideration.

The Emerging Leaders Under 30 Recognition is a unique opportunity to recognize and celebrate the outstanding contributions of young leaders in the field of native plant conservation, education, and awareness in Florida. This award is a testament to the FNPS's commitment to fostering the growth of young professionals and ensuring the future of native plant conservation in the state.

Recognition: We will announce and celebrate award winners on our social media, website, annual meeting, and in our Palmetto publication, which is circulated to over 6000 people. Additionally, winners will be offered an award certificate.

Nominees for the Emerging Leaders Under 30 Recognition must be FNPS members and submitted by a current FNPS member in good standing. Nominations must be submitted via the linked form above. If you have any questions about the Emerging Leaders Under 30 Recognition or the submission process, please contact the Communication Director or the President of the Society.

Contact: Cherice Smithers

Contact Email: csmithers@fnps.org

Application Deadline: May 15, 2026

Landscape Awards

Check back soon for updates!



From residential yards to commercial landscapes and from large-scale restoration sites to small-scale wildlife and butterfly gardens, FNPS encourages Chapters, community groups, businesses, professionals, government agencies, HOA's and individuals to nominate their own or others' landscapes for recognition of their efforts to celebrate and highlight the benefits of native plants.

Submissions are open on June 2, 2025 and will close on August 1, 2025.

Contact Email: landscape-awards@fnps.org

Application Deadline: Aug 01, 2025

Photography Awards

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Celebrate the beauty and importance of Florida’s native plants by sharing your best photos in our photo contest.

Whether you're capturing wild habitats, plant-animal interactions, artistic interpretations, or moments of advocacy in action, we want to see your perspective! Open to all ages, with special categories for youth and discounted entry fees for FNPS members.

Submissions are open on June 15, 2025 and will close on September 15, 2025.

Contact Email: info@fnps.org

Application Deadline: September 15, 2025