At the 2014 Trout Unlimited Annual Meeting in Santa Fe, NM, Colorado TU was recognized with the prestigious State Council Award for Excellence. The selection committee cited a variety of noteworthy accomplishments, but highlighted the organization's landmark victories on the Upper Colorado. Colorado TU President Rick Matsumoto proudly accepted the award on the organization's behalf, noting that this was a team award with many of the key players present. From L to R: Executive Director David Nickum, Vice President Marshall Pendergrass, President Rick Matsumoto, Outreach Coordinator Stephanie Scott, Youth Coordinator Garrett Hanks, and National Leadership Council Representative Tom Jones. Administrative Assistant Shannon Kindle and Immediate Past President Sinjin Eberle were also recognized.

When the State Council Award for Excellence was introduced 10 years ago, Colorado TU was the inaugural winner. Tom Krol was President at the time.