2012
Department of Environment and Conservation

Described as an innovator, leader and teacher, Dave Green has brought vision and passion to his role of Supervisor of the Technical Services Unit at Salmonier Nature Park. Named a “primary source of creativity,” Dave’s work at the park has helped improve the environment, not only for members of the public who visit every year, but for the wildlife that call the park home.

Dave applies his creative talents in many ways. For example, he engineered the upgrading of the park trails, making the park more accessible. He has worked to develop museum-quality exhibits for the park’s Visitor Centre and interactive signage for the trails. He led staff in creating an elaborate float for community Christmas parades, with a vision of promoting the work of the park; creating a connection between people, wildlife and the natural environment. Dave also led teams in constructing barrens and wetland dioramas as permanent exhibits at The Rooms Provincial Museum. Dave has assisted the Wildlife Division with many other temporary exhibits on wetland stewardship, National Wildlife Week and the history of nature study in our province.

“Go ask Dave” has become a common phrase at the park, and his colleagues’ respect for him and his work is apparent. Dave displays a pure joy in his work, and in the role the park plays in the greater community. Throughout his career, he has applied his creativity to projects that have helped the park be viewed as a leading-edge collaborative partner in environmental education and nature-based tourism.

During his tenure, animal enclosures have been transformed to more sensitively meet the habitat requirements of each species. This complex work requires a high level of construction skill, as well as effective communication between his unit and the Animal Care and Education programs. Because of his leadership, the park has received accolades for the design of its enclosures from staff of the Canadian Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and ZooCheck.

Through his tenacity and leadership, Dave exemplifies excellence.