MFWP Announce Montana Wildlife Biologist of the Year for 2026

Each year the Montana Chapter of the Wildlife Society (MCWS) in the state awards one person within the Fish Wildlife and Parks division the title of "Biologist of the Year".  The annual award honors an individual who has shown significant achievements in wildlife conservation.

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This year's recipient has now been announced through the Society and the Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks after their annual convention earlier this year.  And luckily for us in Central Montana, she is based right in our region near Great Falls.

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MFWP Announce Montana Wildlife Biologist of the Year for 2026

For 2026, the award is honoring Sonja Andersen, a Region 4 wildlife biologist based in Lewistown, Montana.  In presenting the award to Andersen, the MCWS stated that she “exemplifies the very best of our profession through unwavering dedication to conservation, exceptional scientific expertise, and tireless advocacy for both wildlife and the people who steward Montana’s landscapes.”

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Ms. Andersen was also recognized for her efforts in conservation, with MFWP Region 4 noting that "she has been involved with numerous conservation easements conserving approximately 12,000 deeded acres and 13,000 leased acres, as well as opening 11,000 acres of previously inaccessible land to the public."

Accolades Continue for Winner of Montana Wildlife Biologist of Year

Presenters of the Montana Wildlife Biologist of the Year continued with more accolades for Ms. Andersen and her 14 years with the MFWP:

Sonja has been a driving force behind advancing wildlife science in Montana. She consistently champions research that expands scientific understanding and ensures wildlife management decisions are grounded in sound, forward-thinking science.

To learn more about the new Biologist of the Year in Montana, visit the Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks social media page here.