The Society of Ethnobiology is pleased to announce that Dr. Richard Ford is the first recipient of our "Distinguished Ethnobiologist Award".  Dr. Ford's long history of mentorship and scholarship exceeds the criteria of the award: to honour an ethnobiologist who has made outstanding contributions to the discipline of ethnobiology and to our Society.

Dr. Ford's research in the American Southwest and elsewhere bridges disciplines such as ethnobotany, paleoethnobotany, and ethnoecology.  His teaching, in both formal and informal settings, has inspired people from many communities, including academic ethnobiologists, Native Americans, and the general public.  Today, he is using his accumulated knowledge to assist Native American tribes with legal cases and to preserve ancient heritage.

Dr. Ford formally accepted his award and addressed the Society at our 2011 annual meetings in Columbus, Ohio.