By Natalie Jones | IANR Communications
Renowned conservation photographer and University of Nebraska–Lincoln educator Michael Forsberg has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Howard L. Wiegers Nebraska Outstanding Wildlife Conservation Award, presented by the UNL Wildlife Club at the annual School of Natural Resources banquet.
Forsberg is known for his decades-long commitment to capturing the beauty and complexity of North America's Great Plains. His work has elevated public awareness of wildlife stewardship and inspired generations of students, conservationists and nature enthusiasts.
With nearly 30 years of experience in conservation photography, Forsberg’s most recent project, Into Whooperland: A Photographer’s Journey with Whooping Cranes, reflects a deeply personal and powerful tribute to one of North America’s rarest bird species. The 224-page book blends stunning imagery with storytelling from Forsberg’s years spent documenting the ancient whooping crane and the unique habitats it depends on.
“Photography can be a powerful witness to our impact on the natural world and a reminder of the beauty and hope that remain,” Forsberg said. “Through this book, my hope is that readers feel a connection to these incredible birds and are inspired to protect them for future generations.”
Beyond his photography, Forsberg’s conservation impact is evident in his co-founding of the Platte Basin Timelapse project, an innovative visual chronicle of watershed changes in the Great Plains, and his role as conservation photographer in residence at the School of Natural Resources. These efforts have created lasting educational resources while fostering a deeper connection between Nebraskans and the landscapes they call home.
“The Wildlife Club has a long history of recognizing people who have found their own way to make a difference in our world,” said Larkin Powell, director and professor at the School of Natural Resources.
“It is special to be able to recognize one of our own faculty for his personal impact on conservation in the Great Plains.”
The Howard L. Wiegers Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the understanding, management or conservation of Nebraska’s wildlife resources. Past recipients include conservation biologists, educators and, most recently, fellow National Geographic photographer Joel Sartore.
Forsberg’s ability to blend artistry and advocacy has brought Nebraska’s wildlife stories to a global audience — and continues to shape the next generation of conservation leaders through his mentorship and vision.
For more on Into Whooperland, visit https://michaelforsberg.com/intowhooperland.