"It is a great honour to receive this award. Our national park system has been a tool that has helped preserve Canada’s diverse eco-systems from coast to coast to coast and ensure that they will be there for future generations of Canadians. As a nation, we must never take for granted the abundant gifts that nature has bestowed upon us and we must continue to show leadership in the preservation and protection of Canada’s – and the earth’s – natural legacy. I am especially honoured when I note that previous Canadian recipients of the Fred M. Packard Award include the Council of the Haida Nation and the Inuit Tapirisat of Canada on behalf of Canadian Inuit. I share with all Canadians a deep commitment to protect our vast land."