BANFF, ALBERTA, June 20, 2005 -- Parks Canada congratulated Mr. Grant Statham, Public Avalanche Risk Specialist for the mountain national parks, on his receipt of the prestigious 2005 Public Service Award of Excellence in the Citizen-focused Service Delivery category. The Public Service Human Resources Management Agency of Canada announced recipients of the Award last Friday during National Public Service Week.
"Mr. Statham has been a catalyst for remarkable advances in public avalanche awareness, education and safety in Canada," said Alan Latourelle, Chief Executive Officer, Parks Canada. "His initiatives transcend Parks Canada and have attracted an international audience that is recognizing Canada as a world leader in the field of public avalanche risk awareness."
During the 2002/2003 winter season, eight avalanche fatalities occurred within national parks, including seven Calgary-area students who were killed while backcountry skiing at Mt. Cheops in Glacier National Park of Canada. In April 2003, Parks Canada formed an independent panel of experts to review winter backcountry risk in the mountain national parks. Its report included 36 recommendations to enhance avalanche safety. In November 2003, Mr. Statham was hired by Parks Canada and tasked with implementing the 36 recommendations.
Mr. Statham's work has built partnerships and increased cooperative efforts in avalanche safety, and resulted in leading-edge national park initiatives, including: the icon-based Backcountry Avalanche Advisory; avalanche terrain ratings for more than 250 popular backcountry ski trails; improved regulations for custodial groups in avalanche terrain; expanded education and awareness programs and information; and detailed information signage at trailheads.
"Mr. Statham's passion, talent, energy and dedication are exemplary of the work Parks Canada employees do every day in every corner of the country," Mr. Latourelle added. "All Parks Canada employees take pride in Mr. Statham's achievements and join in congratulating him."
The Citizen-focused Service Delivery category of the Public Service Awards of Excellence recognizes individuals who provide better access to government information and services through efficient, effective and seamless service delivery that reflects a strong service ethic.
The Public Service Award of Excellence recognizes employees who have demonstrated excellence in achieving results for Canadians that reflect the current values, ethics and priorities of the Public Service of Canada. Up to 29 awards are presented annually to recipients from across Canada and abroad.
Recently, the Canadian Avalanche Association also recognized Mr. Statham as its Professional Member of the Year, an award voted on by his peers.
Information:
Sheri Tarrington
A/Executive Services and Media Relations Liaison
Banff National
ParkParks Canada
(403) 762-1562
