Nanaimo, BC – The American Fisheries Society has awarded the Pacific Biological Station, and the many scientists associated with the Station during its 93 years of operation, with the prestigious William E. Ricker award for 2001. The Pacific Biological Station, located in Nanaimo BC, is one of Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s nine major research facilities. Since 1908, scientists at the Pacific Biological Station (PBS) have collected long-term continuous data sets through their research programs in salmon culture, salmon dynamics and stock identification, herring investigations, shellfish investigations, groundfish dynamics, and in fish health. This research has provided scientists and fishery managers with the information required to understand biological processes in the marine and freshwater environment. Only through long-term research and monitoring programs can scientists have the opportunity to explore the time series relationships with global climate changes, introduced aquatic species, shifts in fish assemblages and aquatic productivity. "It is a great honour for PBS to be recognized for scientific excellence throughout its 93 year history. During those years, the Station virtually established Canada as a world leader in Pacific fisheries science," said Wayne Wouters, Deputy Minister for Fisheries and Oceans Canada. "It is also very fitting that PBS receive this particular award due to our long association with Dr. Ricker, his enormous scientific contributions and the prestige he has brought to the station." The William E. Ricker award was established in 1995 in honour of its namesake, a scientist at the Pacific Biological Station. The award is given annually, if warranted, to an individual or entity for accomplishment or activity that advances aquatic resource conservation that is significant at a national or international level. Dr. William (Bill) Ricker, considered one Canada’s top scientists, just celebrated his 93rd birthday. Throughout his 60-year career, Dr. Ricker pioneered research on fisheries assessment techniques that today serve as the scientific foundation of the management of fisheries in Canada and throughout the world. A Member of the Order of Canada, Dr. Ricker’s research has created innumerable benefits for nations who rely on sustainable commercial and recreational fisheries over the short and long terms. Dr. Laura Richards, A/Regional Director of Science for Fisheries and Oceans Canada, accepted the award at the AFS’ Annual Meeting in Phoenix, Arizona on August 20, 2001. -30- For more information:
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