The Fur Institute of Canada is pleased to announce the recipients of this year’s awards, presented at their Annual General Meeting in St. John’s, Newfoundland, on June 12, 2010.

Ivan Pitcher, recently retired after a 35-year career with Newfoundland and Labrador’s Wildlife Division, was the recipient of the Lloyd Cook Award, which recognizes commitment to excellence in trapping, trapper education and public understanding of wildlife management.  Mr. Pitcher worked for most of his career as a furbearer biologist and his actions always promoted the long-term sustainable use and conservation of furbearer species.

The Jim Bourque Award went to Robert (Guy) Erasmus, a dedicated employee of the NWT government and coordinator of programming in support of the Traditional Economy since 2002.  This award is in recognition of Mr. Bourque’s commitment to the sustainable use of wildlife resources, improved animal welfare, the development of Canada’s modern fur trade, the recognition of Indigenous People’s cultures and the stewardship role that trappers play in the conservation and management of Canada’s wildlife.  In addition to his regular responsibilities, Mr. Erasmus, working with an elder, teachers and students, designed and implemented the Take a Kid Trapping initiative.  The program has since expanded with the addition of the Take a Kid Harvesting and Traditional Canoe Building programs provided in all regions of the NWT.

A public figure in all aspects of the fishing industry for over 30 years, Mark Small was the recipient of the Bernard Cahill Memorial Award, given to recognize the promotion of respect for people, animals and the environment.  Mr. Small is a former Board member of the Institute, was President of the Canadian Sealers Association for over 15 years and was awarded a lifetime service award by the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

The North American Furbearer Conservation Award, which recognizes innovation and excellence in furbearer management and promoting pride in the fur industry, was given to Eric Lofroth, a Meso-carnivore Specialist with the BC Ministry of Environment, for his significant contributions for over 25 years as a wildlife science specialist working on furbearer management throughout the province.

Bruce Williams, Chairman of the FIC stated, “I am pleased to recognize these worthy individuals for their outstanding examples of the work carried out to promote the wise and sustainable use of Canada’s fur resources.”