On December 3, 2009, Ecotrust recognized five of the West's most innovative Indigenous leaders for their efforts to improve community conditions. Jim Manion, Janeen Comenote, Allen Pinkham, Sr., A. Brian Wallace, and Patricia L. Whitefoot were honored for their work spanning youth advocacy, education, renewable energy, cultural restoration, and scholarship.

The Ecotrust Indigenous Leadership Award is a preeminent program supporting tribal, First Nation, and Alaska Native leaders. These groups are vital nations, governments, landowners, resource co-managers, and economic drivers, contributing long-range vision and sustainable values to the global economy.