Longtime New West resident Elmer Rudolph’s environmental efforts have once again been recognized by Burnaby.
Rudolph is one of the recipients of the City of Burnaby’s2020 environmental awards, which recognize individuals and community groups that have made significant contributions to the sustainability of Burnaby’s environment and are role models in the community. He was recognized in the Community Stewardship category for his outstanding commitment to community action for environmental protection and rehabilitation of the Brunette River.
“Mr. Rudolph has played an exemplary role in community stewardship for the Brunette River and has inspired those who have worked alongside him, as well as his community,” said a profile on the City of Burnaby’s website. “His dedication, leadership and commitment to protecting Burnaby’s diverse ecosystem has made a positive impact on species conservation while demonstrating the importance of community action for environmental protection.”
Rudolph, a member of the Sapperton Fish and Game Club, is a longtime member and president of the West End Residents’ Association.
Recipients of the 2020 environmental awards were announced at Burnaby city council’s Sept. 28 meeting.
According to the profile, Rudolph was recognized with an environmental award in 1996 – the very first year of Burnaby’s awards program – and has spent the subsequent 24 years volunteering to protect Burnaby’s diverse ecosystems.
Rudolph’s efforts include leading conservation initiatives and rehabilitation programs in the Brunette watershed, advocating for pollution prevention and the ecological health of the Brunette River and Burnaby Lake, working on rehabilitation projects such as the installation of large woody debris and in-stream weirs, cleaning out of spawning beds to provide opportunities for successful salmon reproduction, and playing a key role in starting a community fish hatchery in Burnaby that has enhanced salmon populations in the Brunette River watershed, including significant salmon-bearing streams.
“Each year, Mr. Rudolph volunteers his time to work on salmon rehabilitation projects, coordinate and manage volunteers, and advocate for the protection and conservation of salmon,” said the profile. “He also spends time engaging youth in initiatives and educating them on the importance of species conservation and is a longtime supporter of the Stoney Creek Environment Committee's Great Salmon Send-Off.”
