For more information:
Judy Malone (303) 771-3500, ext. 35
Amy Trinidad (303) 771-2500, ext. 55

DENVER, Colo. - Sept. 4, 2008 - Nov. 21, 2008, marks the deadline for submission of nominations for the annual American Sheep Industry Association Awards.

There are six award categories available for nomination:

McClure Silver Ram Award - presented to a sheep producer who has made substantial contributions to the sheep industry and its organizations in his/her state, region or nation. Nominees should be recognized as industry leaders with nominations spelling out the candidates' contributions to the industry and its producers.

Camptender Award - recognizing industry contributions from a professional in a position or field related to sheep production. Nominees should show a strong commitment to the sheep industry and significant contributions to the industry, its organizations and its producers above and beyond that called for in his/her professional capacity.

Flock Guardian Award - recognizing outstanding management of resources to enhance flock management. The award may be given to a producer or industry professional who works directly with producers and who has adapted innovative management techniques with positive benefits in the areas of predator control, grazing or water management.

Shepherd's Voice Award for Print Media - recognition for outstanding year-long print coverage of the sheep industry for media not directly related to the sheep industry. The award excludes publications related solely to the sheep industry, recognizing general publications for excellence in covering sheep industry issues.

Shepherd's Voice Award for Broadcast Media - recognition for outstanding year-long broadcast coverage of the sheep industry. (Both television and radio are included in this category.) Nominees may be stations, networks or specific reporters exhibiting a strong commitment to balanced reporting and consistent coverage of the sheep industry locally, statewide and/or nationally.

Environmental Stewardship Award - recognizing individuals actively involved in sheep production who have shown an extraordinary commitment to caring for natural resources and thereby enhancing the environment.

Nominations must be received at the ASI office by Nov. 21, 2008. (Please note that past award recipients are not eligible.)

Awards will be presented at the ASI Convention, Jan. 22-24, 2009, in San Diego, Calif.

To receive a nomination application, call or e-mail ASI: (303) 771-3500; info@sheepusa.org. The one-page nomination form can also be downloaded from ASI's Web site, www.sheepusa.org, by clicking on the "2009 Awards Program" link located in the lower right-hand corner of the home page.

ASI is a national organization supported by 45 state sheep associations, benefiting the interests of more than 70,500 sheep producers.