BTT to Honor Conservation Leaders

July 31, 2025July 31, 2025

Bonefish & Tarpon Trust (BTT) will honor conservation leaders Jeff Harkavy, Tim Borski and Chris and Wendi Peterson of Hell’s Bay Boatworks at the organization’s 8th International Science Symposium on Nov. 7-8 2025 at the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina.

Chris and Wendi Peterson, owners of Hell’s Bay Boatworks, will receive the Flats Stewardship Award in recognition of their efforts to safeguard fisheries. As a leading boat maker, Hell’s Bay has long been an ardent supporter of marine conservation, donating to BTT, Captains for Clean Water and the Coastal Conservation Association. Through their work with these organizations, the Peterson’s have become deeply involved in water policy-making.

Wendi and Chris Peterson of Hell's Bay Boatworks

Chris served for more than a decade on the BTT board of directors, and Wendi is a board member for Captains for Clean Water. In 2020, Chris was appointed to the St. Johns River Water Management District board, helping to develop water policies that affect more than five million people living in 18 counties. He has also advocated for healthy waterways before the Florida Legislature and the U.S. Congress.

“Jeff, Tim, Chris and Wendi are remarkable leaders in the conservation of our flats fisheries,” BTT President and CEO Jim McDuffie said. “The impact of their many contributions, individually and collectively, is evident in our progress to improve water quality, conserve coastal habitats and ensure effective fishery management, while their unwavering commitment to the cause has inspired countless other anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to become involved in our mission.”

As BTT award recipients, Harkavy, Borski, and the Peterson’s will be enshrined on the BTT Circle of Honor, which recognizes legendary anglers, fishing guides, and conservation leaders who have made significant contributions to the conservation of the flats fishery. The Circle of Honor is housed in the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center, located in Islamorada, Florida, and features an annually rotating exhibit about those honored as well as educational content about the significance of the flats fishery.

To register for BTT’s 8th International Science Symposium, visit: www.BTT.org/symposium.

Click on the picture above to learn more about Bonefish and Tarpon Trust.