“As New York’s oldest conservation organization, it is important for us to come together, recharge our collective energy, and honor those who have given so much to the cause of protecting our natural resources,” said NYSCC President Keith Tidball.

Fredonia resident Zenon Olow, a lifelong outdoorsman and respected community leader, was recently recognized by the New York State Conservation Council for his outstanding dedication to conservation, education and advocacy. Olow was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his long-standing service to protect the environment and for his contributions to conserving New York’s natural resources, with a particular focus on Chautauqua County.

The NYS Conservation Council Fall Convention was held at the infamous Sagamore Hotel near Raquette Lake where Tidball presented recognition awards honoring leadership, dedication and service in the field of conservation.

As the president of the Chautauqua County Federation of Sportsmen, Olow has been a driving force in uniting local sportsmen’s clubs and conservation groups, bolstering the county’s influence on outdoor issues. His leadership extends beyond the county, as he also serves as the Region 9 representative to the NYS Conservation Council, and as the Chautauqua County representative to the Western New York Environmental Federation, advocating for hunters, anglers and conservationists across Western New York.

Diane Steel, treasurer for the NYSCC, is presented with the “Busy Beaver Award” for her support of the NYS Conservation Council.

Olow’s fervor for introducing the next generation to the outdoors is unmistakable. His leadership in youth programs, which includes providing lifetime hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses to young sportsmen and women, and organizing special recognition events with the Northern Chautauqua Conservation Club and other Chautauqua County conservation clubs, is a testament to his commitment to the future of conservation.

Among anglers from near and far, Olow was the honest and renowned chairman of the Con Club Annual Fishing Derby. His strong voice on the microphone at this event brought good news to anglers for cash prize awards and raffle gifts for many years.

His efforts extend into community and legislative engagement, where he has played a key role in organizing major events such as the annual Harry Probst Memorial Sportsmen’s Banquet and creating the Lake Erie VIP Fishing Day — an event that has become known today as the “Lake Erie Experience,” which unites legislators from near and far with local resources that affect Lake Erie and related conservation and community efforts. These gatherings not only celebrate the sporting community, but also foster dialogue among elected officials, outdoor writers, and conservation leaders.

Several years ago, in recognition of his lifelong commitment to conservation and mentorship, Olow was inducted into the Outdoorsmen Hall of Fame, a distinction reserved for those who leave a lasting impact on New York’s outdoor heritage.

Despite his many accomplishments, Olow remains known for his humility, generosity and dedication to sharing the outdoors with others. His leadership, which is wide-ranging and open, continues to inspire sportsmen and women of all ages to value and protect the natural resources of Chautauqua County and beyond. He has provided mentorship to many, and his name has become legendary in conservation circles.

The New York State Conservation Council fall conference was held at the Sagamore Hotel in Raquette Lake. Two local leaders received recognition awards for their leadership. NYSCC is the oldest conservation organization in New York state.

Other NYSCC award presentations included the Conservation Educator of the Year award, which was presented to Linda Brosch, but she was unable to attend; Chuck Parker accepted the award on her behalf. The President’s Award went to the Rockdale Rod & Gun Club for its outstanding achievements and steadfast support of the council’s future. The Professional Conservationist Award, a prestigious recognition for individuals who have made significant contributions to the field, went to Steve Hurst, the Chief of the NYS Bureau of Fisheries. He turned down the individual award, but accepted it on behalf of the Bureau of Fisheries. Last and not least, perhaps among the most significant of recognition citations is the “Busy Beaver Award” to Diane Steel, the NYSCC treasurer. Her tireless dedication to advancing the cause and effectiveness of the council through clarity in communication, and the same with many other outdoor and conservation groups, is unmatched. Steel is another tireless and exceptional Western New Yorker, from Alden, who provides assistance and leadership to local conservation groups, including the Eastern Lake Erie Charter Boat Association, the Erie County Federation of Sportsmen, the WNY Environmental Federation, and others. Congratulations to all the NYSCC award recipients.

Gotta love the outdoors.

CALENDAR

Sept. 25: 3-D Archery, West Falls Conservation, 55 Bridge St., West Falls, 4 p.m. start, 15-target hillside course. Kitchen open. Indoor/outdoor practice ranges. Mike Cummings, 716-652-4650. Ends Sept. 25.

Sept. 27: NYS Hunter Education, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Carroll Rod & Gun Club, 1111 Frew Run Road, Frewsburg; Visit: https://dec.ny.gov.

Sept. 27: NYS Free Fishing Day, no license needed to fish in NYS for residents and non-residents.

Sept. 27: National Fishing and Hunting Day at Elma Conservation Club, free, open to public.

Sept. 27-28: NYS Western Zone waterfowl hunting youth days for ages 12-15, mentors required., see syllabus.

Oct. 1: NYS Southern Zone Big Game early archery/crossbow hunting season opens, through Nov. 14.

Oct. 1: NYS Southern Zone hunting season opens for coyote, cottontail rabbits, varying hare, ruffed grouse, bobwhite quail. See syllabus for various species season end.