Council Awards

Award of Excellence

The Council’s Award of Excellence was established in 2016 to recognize an individual’s outstanding contribution to fisheries management, legislation, science, or law enforcement in the mid-Atlantic region. The award is made on a periodic basis subject to the identification and selection of outstanding individuals.

Award of Excellence Guidelines

Past Recipients

Lee Anderson (2023)
Rick Robins (2016)

James A. Ruhle Cooperative Research Award

The James A. Ruhle Cooperative Research Award was established by the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council to recognize individuals or groups of individuals who have made outstanding contributions to fisheries science and management in the Mid-Atlantic region through their participation in cooperative research projects. The award was established in memory of Captain James “Jimmy” Ruhle (1948-2023), a commercial fisherman, former Council member, and cooperative research pioneer.

James A. Ruhle Cooperative Research Award Guidelines

Past Recipients

Jimmy Ruhle (2024)

Ricks E Savage Award

The Council established the Ricks E Savage Award in 2006 to recognize individuals who have added value to the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council process and management goals through significant scientific, legislative, enforcement or management activities.

The award is named in honor of Ricks E Savage, former member and Chairman of the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council. Mr. Savage, a Maryland resident and former surfclam vessel owner/operator, was among the first members to be appointed to the Mid-Atlantic Council after the regional council system was established by Congress in 1976. Between 1976 and 2005, Mr. Savage served for a total of 21 years on the Council at different times. He was elected as Council Chairman in August 2001 and served in this role until he termed out in August 2005. As Chairman, Mr. Savage was recognized for his leadership, service, and dedication to the Council.