Doug Clarke Memorial Award

The Canadian Wildlife Federation introduced the award in 1982 in memory of C.H.D. “Doug” Clarke, a pioneer in biological research in the North who was devoted to the philosophy, science and art of wildlife management. At the time of his death in 1981, he was a director of the federation. This award is presented to a CWF affiliate for an outstanding conservation project completed during the previous year by the affiliate, its clubs and members.

BCWF Go Wild! Youth for Conservation Camp, Mission, British Columbia

Go Wild! is a popular leadership day-program focused on fish and wildlife conservation, ecology and sustainability. Intended for anyone between age 13 and 17, the five-day camp fosters responsible practices in the wild and inspires interest in environmental stewardship. Since its founding in 2013, the program has incorporated a diverse range of activities, including exploring local ecosystems to learn about flora and fauna, and learning how to hunt and fish responsibly and safely. During the 2016 camp in Mission, B.C., the participants learned about endangered species in the area while on a hike led by conservation biologist Pamela Zevit. They took fishing lessons and learned to fillet fish with members of the British Columbia Federation of Drift Fishers. In discussion sessions, the group worked together to “reason out” environmental and ethical issues. Participants also got their hands dirty cleaning up and rehabilitating a nearby site. After a fun week, everyone left with the skills and knowledge to become involved in conservation projects in their communities and with some ideas about how to go further, including information about post-secondary education and career opportunities in the conservation field.

WHAT THE PARTICIPANTS SAID

• “It sounded really interesting and I want to learn about wildlife.”

• “I signed up for Go Wild! to get my Conservation and Outdoor Recreation Education [required for B.C. residents once they are 18 or older to obtain a hunting licence] and because I have an interest in becoming a conservation officer.”

• “There were a lot of fun parts. One of my favourites was the scavenger hunt, because it was fun to find items in the forest.”

• “I learned a lot about getting into a conservation career.”

• “I learned how many different types of bugs there are.… If I was reincarnated, I would come back as a bug.”

• “I learned to identify tracks and plants, also bugs.”

LEARN MORE

Visit bcwf.net.