The Calgary Stampede's Western Legacy Award committee has put out the call for nominations for this year's recognition.

Committee Chair Sandra Clarkson says the awards acknowledge those who keep the western spirit alive.

"The Calgary Stampede Western Legacy Awards are representing people in the community who make a real difference to the lives we lead, and uphold the western values that are; commitment to community, pride in place, integrity and western hospitality," she says.

Past local winners have included Roy and Lenore McLean from Pekisko in 2005 and Bill Dunn of High River in 2011 for his tireless work preserving the history of the Old MacLeod Trail.

"I was part of the committee during that time," Clarkson says. "And I remember him coming up on stage and it was the best feeling, as a committee member, be so excited for being recognized for their life's work, it just made everything so amazing."

There are four categories:Sustained Contribution, individual, Sustained Contribution, group, Innovation and Youth.

The nomination deadline is July 31, 2015 and the awards will be handed out November 12, 2015.

For more information go to www.calgarystampede.com/wla