The ACTWS Wildlife Outreach Award recognizes wildlife professionals for their leadership in conservation education and public outreach in Alberta. This year, we are pleased to present this award to Wes Olson.
Winners of this award are professionals who have worked with students, decision makers, nature groups and the general public to raise awareness of important issues and become a wildlife ambassador. These are ambassadors that expertly participate in education and outreach activities.
Through his work with Parks Canada as a warden, Wes developed a passion for bison. That passion led him down a career path that has intersected with the public as a wildlife manager, artist, guest speaker, and now consultant. His work has helped foster a broader understanding of the ecological, cultural, and historical role bison have played in prairie life, and perhaps facilitated interest in reintroductions across Alberta and the northwest United States.
Wes is an inspiring person to chat with and as you will see in his acceptance video, this award is well deserved. Wes also had some great advice for other wildlife scientists looking to improve their outreach skills. Thank you for your service to Alberta’s wildlife, Wes, and congratulations!
