A nominee's outstanding accomplishments must be widely recognized by leaders in soil and water conservation and/or related fields. The nominee's influence or position should have materially stimulated interest in and advanced the conservation of soil, water, and related natural resources through one or more of the following fields: author, speaker, educator, administrator, industry, business, banking, soil conservationist, profession (lawyer, doctor, minister, etc.), and nonpartisan political activity. The nominee's activity should have more of a voluntary or extraordinary nature and not just part of his or her normal working duties.

Selection shall be made on the basis of demonstrated leadership, creativity, and dedication, while working with individuals, communities, or units of government, resulting in improved awareness and positive actions toward protection of natural resources in our living environment. An award committee may review and rank nominations, but chapter officers will make final selections. No elected officer of the National Capital Chapter shall be eligible for the award while holding office. Society members and nonmembers are eligible.