Created by William Temple Hornaday as the Permanent Wild Life Protection Fund Medal in 1915, the program is designed to encourage learning about natural resource conservation and the environment, teach sound stewardship of the natural resources and the environment, and recognize those who are outstanding in this field.

In October 2020, after a review of Hornaday's life, the BSA changed the name of and significantly modified the program, stating that some of Hornaday's beliefs went "against the BSA’s values," and determined that "the conservation award should no longer bear his name in order to uphold our commitment against racism and discrimination.

Understanding and practicing sound stewardship of natural resources and environmental protection strengthened Scouting's emphasis on respecting the outdoors.

Through earning one of these prestigious awards, candidates joined the ranks of Scouts, Venturers, Scouters, and organizations who have gone above and beyond in committing themselves to living with a positive environmental ethic, protecting the environment, and educating others about conservation issues we face today.

The nominee must have demonstrated leadership and a commitment to the education of youth on a council or district level for a period of no less than three years.

Awarded to packs, troops, teams or crews which completed a significant conservation project with at least 60 percent of unit contributing.

It was for unusual and distinguished service in natural resource conservation and environmental improvement at the regional or international level.

Nominations would then be approved by the Hornaday Awards Committee and the National Conservation and Environment Task Force.

The nominee must have made an outstanding contribution to youth conservation education and demonstrated commitment to the education of youth on a national or international level, reflecting the natural resource conservation and environmental awareness mission of the Boy Scouts of America.

These awards represented a substantial commitment of time and energy by individuals who have learned the meaning of a conservation and environmental ethic.