Banff conservationist and wildlife advocate Harvey Locke is among the nominees being considered for the world’s leading animal conservation award.
The biennial Indianapolis Prize spotlights the stories and accomplishments of those working around the globe to save our species and shape future populations and ecosystems.
Locke is co-founder of the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative (Y2Y) and Nature Needs Half movement and is among the 32 internationally renowned nominees. He is being recognized for his major contributions toward wildlife conservation in Canada’s national parks and protected areas, and advancing large landscape conservation globally.
“It is a great honour to be recognized among such a varied and talented group of champions for wildlife,” said Locke. “It is essential for now and for future generations that we conserve nature in all its wonderful expressions.”
“The 2018 Indianapolis Prize Nnominees represent many of the most significant and accomplished wildlife conservationists in the field today,” said Michael Crowther, president and CEO of the Indianapolis Zoo, which initiated the Indianapolis Prize as part of its core mission.
“They are protecting species and creating successful conservation methods that ensure future generations will live in a flourishing and sustainable world. We applaud their accomplishments and encourage individuals, organizations, companies, and governments to join them in advancing animal conservation.”
“Harvey is a leader in large landscape conservation in Canada, America and beyond. His tireless work has been central to increasing protected area coverage in the Yellowstone to Yukon region from 11 to 21 per cent,” said Dr. Jodi Hilty, president and chief s cientist of Y2Y.
“Likewise, he has been instrumental in advancing large landscape conservation in parts of Europe, Australia and elsewhere. Few individuals have had a hand in so many tangible and important conservation advances.”
The winner of the prize will receive an unrestricted $250,000 cash award and five finalists will each receive $10,000. The winner also receives the prestigious Lilly Medal, a commemorative piece that showcases the relationship between people and the natural world.
The nominating committee and jury, composed of professional conservationists, will choose six finalists and a winner, to be announced at a gala in Indianapolis on Sept. 29, 2018.
