The Wayne E. Kirch Nevada Wildlife Conservation Award is given annually to recipients who have demonstrated significant results towards conservation, management or enhancement of wildlife. An individual, non-profit organization, outdoor sports club, or business can be nominated for the award.

Selection of the winning nominee will be made solely from the official conservation award nomination form. A simple majority of votes from a judging committee that is made up of two wildlife commissioners, the Department of Wildlife staff assigned to the Kirch Award Committee and Marlene Kirch, daughter of former commissioner Wayne E. Kirch will determine the recipient. In addition, four judges representing county advisory boards to manage
wildlife or outdoor groups will be selected biennially by the Habitat Division, Game Division, Diversity Division and Fisheries Division chiefs.

The following criteria is considered in evaluating nominees:

• Time and depth of commitment to conservation, management, or enhancement of wildlife in the state of Nevada during the current calendar year.
• Influence of the person/project on the public and in presenting positive public relations in regard to wildlife conservation in Nevada.
• Quantity and quality of measurable results for wildlife conservation.
• Obstacles, difficulties and personal sacrifice involved in meeting wildlife conservation goals.