In 1974, inspirational conservationist and writer Sigurd F. Olson won the John Burroughs Medal for his book, Wilderness Days. Since 1992, and in the spirit of celebrating Sigurd’s commendable literary legacy, the Sigurd Olson Environmental Institute at Northland College has recognized remarkable environmental adult literature that captures the essence of human relation with the natural world. While the acknowledged literature promotes values that preserve or restore land for future generations, author and artist recipients of the Sigurd F. Olson Nature Writing Award also often tout the award in their credentials and are proud of the honor they receive from the Institute for their hard literary work.

Two groups of dedicated volunteers make up the reading groups that decide what books will receive the annual awards. These groups are facilitated by the Northland College's English Department and the Sigurd Olson Environmental Institute. 

The authors and illustrators are often invited by the reading committees to visit the Northland College campus, area schools, and community organizations. These visits usually include a reading and award ceremony at the Sigurd Olson Environmental Institute.

These interactions between Northland College students, area residents and environmental artists are invaluable to the Chequamegon Bay region, the literary and arts community, and the educational experience at Northland College. At the Institute, we see these interactions as positive, proactive, and meaningful ways of sharing messages of environmental appreciation and respect with the region.

Year 2004 marked the first time the Institute recognized a children’s book, Isabel’s House of Butterflies. The winning author, Tony Johnston, and illustrator, Susan Guevara, visited with Northland College students and Ashland elementary students in early March of 2005 when they traveled to the Northland College campus to receive their awards.

To find out more about the Sigurd Olson Nature Writing Awards, or about how to submit your book for consideration, contact us at (715) 682-1222.