North Fork Preservation Association announces Wilderness Scholarship

The North Fork Preservation Association announces 2026 eligibility for the Loren Kreck – Edwin Fields Wilderness Scholarship. This $2,000 annual award is designed to support graduate students at Montana institutions who are dedicated to the advocacy and preservation of wilderness through public policy, science, journalism, or the arts. 

The scholarship honors the legacies of two local conservation icons, Dr. Loren Kreck, a key activist in the designation of the Great Bear Wilderness, and Edwin Fields, a builder and former president of Headwaters Montana. Both spent decades defending Montana’s wild places. Following the sun setting of Headwaters Montana, funds bequeathed by both families were transferred to the North Fork Preservation Association to ensure their mission of wilderness advocacy continues through the next generation of leaders. 

“Both Loren and Edwin dedicated their lives to protecting the natural resources of Northwest Montana,” said Suzanne Hildner, secretary of the association. “We are honored to manage this scholarship, which directly supports students using their education to champion the same biodiversity and wild landscapes these men fought so hard to protect.” 

The scholarship’s $2,000, is to be applied to tuition, fees, or required materials. Graduate students currently enrolled in a Montana institution are eligible. Fields of study include, but are not limited to, wildlife biology, ecology, environmental law, journalism, and the expressive arts. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to advocating for wilderness protection. 

Interested students must submit a curriculum vitae, including a history of wilderness advocacy, a letter of intent, proof of graduate school acceptance, and a general statement of financial need by June 30, to Awards/Scholarship Committee, c/o Suzanne Hildner at [email protected]