History

The Wilder Medal was established in 1873 by the American Pomological Society in honor of Marshall Pinckney Wilder, the illustrious founder and first President of the Society.

The award consists of a beautifully engraved medal which is presented to the recipient at the annual meeting of the American Pomological Society.

The Wilder Medal is conferred on individuals or organizations which have rendered outstanding service to horticulture in the broad area of pomology. Special consideration is given to work relating to the origination and introduction of meritorious varieties of fruit. Individuals associated with either commercial concerns or professional organizations may be considered as long as their introductions are truly superior and have been widely planted.

Significant contributions to the science and practice of pomology other than fruit breeding also will be considered. Such contributions may relate to any important area of fruit production such as rootstock development and evaluation, anatomical or morphological studies, or unusually noteworthy publications in any of the above subject areas. Activities relating to olericulture, ornamental horticulture, or the processing of fruits and vegetables are not considered to be within the areas of interest for which the medal is to be awarded.

Wilder Medal

The Wilder Medal

Nomination Form & Contact:

The guidelines for nominations can be found on the nomination form and includes details necessary for a complete nomination packet.

Nominations can be sent to the Wilder Medal Award Chairperson:
Dr. Brent Black, Professor & Extension Fruit Specialist, Utah State University
Phone: 435-797-2174
E-mail: Brent.black@usu.edu

2024 Wilder Award Winner

Dr. Kate Evans, Washington State University

For outstanding contributions to pome fruit breeding and genetics. 

History of Wilder Award Winners

Wilder Award Committee Members

Peter PetracekValent Biosciences2023-2025
Scott LukasOregon State University2023-2025
Tom KonNorth Carolina State University2024-2026
Renae MoranUniversity of Maine2024-2026
Brent Black, ChairUtah State Universitysince 2020