Walter Emrich and the New Brunswick Museum Natural History Department Recognized with 2024 Lieutenant Governor’s Award 

THURSDAY, MAY 8, 2025

TRADITIONAL TERRITORY OF WABANAKI PEOPLES/FREDERICTON, N.B. — The Nature Trust of New Brunswick and the Office of the Lieutenant Governor are proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Land Conservation: Walter Emrich, dedicated conservation volunteer and board member, and the New Brunswick Museum’s Natural History Department, represented by Dr. Stephen Clayden, Dr. Donald McAlpine, and Dr. Randy Miller. 

Presented annually at a ceremony at Government House, the award honours extraordinary individuals and organizations whose work has made a lasting impact on New Brunswick’s natural landscapes and biodiversity. 

“The individuals and organizations we honour today remind us that protecting nature is both a science and an act of love,” said the Hon. Louise Imbeault, Lieutenant-Governor of New Brunswick. “The natural world is a gift, and it is heartening to recognize and celebrate those who dedicate their lives to its protection. Their work ensures that the rivers, forests, and coastlines that define New Brunswick will continue to inspire future generations.” 

Walter Emrich has been a cornerstone of the Nature Trust’s success for over two decades. As a longtime board member, land donor, and trainer of volunteers, Walter has not only helped protect more than 40 nature preserves, but has also mentored hundreds of volunteers, fostering a culture of care and action. From building trails and leading shoreline cleanups to personally stewarding the conservation land he and his wife Margo gifted to the Nature Trust, Walter’s hands-on spirit and quiet leadership have inspired a generation of conservation volunteers to roll up their sleeves and protect the places that feel like home. 

The New Brunswick Museum Natural History Department, through the leadership of Dr. Stephen Clayden, Dr. Donald McAlpine, and Dr. Randy Miller, has been the scientific backbone of conservation in the province for over 30 years. Their pioneering research on biodiversity, geology, and protected areas has informed critical conservation strategies, from shaping the province’s Protected Natural Areas Act to creating public engagement initiatives like the renowned “BiotaNB” field camps. Their collective work has not only catalogued New Brunswick’s natural riches but inspired a culture of curiosity, pride, and protection among citizens and scientists alike. 

“This year, we are thrilled to celebrate two recipients whose lifetimes of service have fundamentally shaped conservation in our province,” said Carli le Roux, Acting CEO of the Nature Trust of New Brunswick. “Walter’s tireless volunteer leadership and hands-on care for our nature preserves, and the Natural History Department’s decades of research and public championing of biodiversity, together reflect the spirit of this award: protecting what we love, for generations to come.” 

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About the award 

The Lieutenant-Governor’s Award for Excellence in Land Conservation was established in 2012 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Nature Trust of New Brunswick. It is presented annually by the Honourary Patron of the Nature Trust, the Lieutenant Governor of New Brunswick. This year’s recipients join a distinguished list of people and organizations who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to protecting New Brunswick’s natural heritage. To see the full list of past recipients, visit our website. 

About the Nature Trust of New Brunswick 

The Nature Trust of New Brunswick is a charitable land conservation organization dedicated to protecting New Brunswick’s natural spaces forever. Since 1987, the Nature Trust has worked in partnership with landowners, communities, and volunteers to conserve more than 14,000 acres across the province, safeguarding vital forests, rivers, and coastlines. With a mission grounded in connection, care, and community, the Nature Trust helps ensure that the wild places that feel like home today will be there for future generations to explore, love, and protect. Learn more at www.naturetrust.nb.ca. 

For more information or to arrange interviews with this year’s award recipients, please contact: 

Jon MacNeill 
Communications and Engagement Manager 
Nature Trust of New Brunswick 
jon.macneill@ntnb.org | (506) 457-2398 (office) | (506) 238-3539 (mobile)