Active Media Members are individuals who meet the requirements for one of the membership categories below, or who meet the requirements in any combination of categories equal to full membership, are eligible in this category. Also, Apprentice Memberships also apply for those that do not meet the full Active Member requirements at this time. Annual dues for Active Members are $50.

1. Newspaper staff writer/columnist/editor – 20 columns or stories published in the past 12 months. Submit two clippings or copies of clippings.
2. Still photographer – 24 photos published in the past 12 months. Submit two clippings or copies of clippings.
3. Illustrator/cartoonist/artist – 5 works in the past 12 months. Submit one clipping or copy.
4. Motion picture/video/audio producer – Production of one original motion picture, video/audio tape or DVD in the past 12 months. Submit brochure, clipping of newspaper or magazine review or one sample.
5. Broadcast communications – 60 minutes of original outdoor television programming or 20 original radio programs in the preceding 12 months. Submit a letter from station supervisor certifying requirements are met.
6. Full-time magazine staff member – Submit masthead listing or letter from the editor.
7. Freelance magazine writer and/or part-time staffer – 5 articles published in the past 12 months. Submit two clippings or copies of clippings.
8. Book author/editor – Publication or completion of a book in the past 12 months. Submit proof of publication (book jacket, clippings of reviews, etc.) or letter from publisher attesting to release date and/or editor credentials.
9. Lecturer – 18 lectures in the past 12 months. Submit printed program or letter(s) from those paying for lecture.
10. Full-time information employee of government or nonprofit agency – Employment in categories 1 through 9 by a government agency or nonprofit organization. Submit letter from supervisor certifying employment and duties.
11. Employee of outdoor-related industry, agency, etc. – Full-time individual service producing materials for media use for outdoor-related companies or services. Submit four samples of brochures, news releases, photographs, etc.
12. Full-time educator/instructor – Full-time teacher or other educator whose subject matter includes nature, conservation or outdoor recreation subjects. Submit at least two lesson plans or letter from supervisor (principal, superintendent, dean, etc.) certifying subjects and amount of time involved.
13. Internet communicator – Production of outdoor-related materials for Internet distribution. Submit web site URL.
14. Apprentice Members - Those who express the goal of becoming Active members but do not yet meet membership criteria and who agree to work under the supervision of an Active member to accomplish that goal. Apprentice membership is limited to three years duration.