Don Dabbs (Photo courtesy of Karol Dabbs)
Honouring Don Dabbs and his tremendous commitment to NCC
The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) was saddened to learn of the passing of former board member, supporter and friend Donald (Don) Dabbs on April 14, 2013 at the age of 68.
Avid photographer, conservationist and nature enthusiast Don Dabbs will be forever missed but never forgotten. His extraordinary dedication and commitment to NCC and the conservation of Canada’s natural landscapes will live on in the countless images and video that he and his wife, Karol, have so graciously donated over the years.
“If you didn’t have the pleasure of knowing Don, of hearing his laugh or the gentle baritone rumble of his voice, you will know his videos and photographs. Don’s presence will always be missed at NCC but he leaves behind a photographic and video archive of immeasurable value. How lucky we are to be forever able to see the beauty of the world through Don’s eyes,” said Bob Demulder, Alberta Regional vice president.
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Click on the image to enlarge.Don Dabbs at Glenbow Ranch, AB (Photo by NCC) -
Click on the image to enlarge.Bird Rock, NL (Photo by Don and Karol Dabbs) -
Click on the image to enlarge.Don Dabbs at Chinook Ranch, AB (Photo by NCC) -
Click on the image to enlarge.Bluebells (Photo by Don and Karol Dabbs) -
Click on the image to enlarge.Don Dabbs at the Cairns Property announcement, AB (Photo by NCC) -
Click on the image to enlarge.Fall in the Sutton Mountains, QC (Photo by Don and Karol Dabbs) -
Click on the image to enlarge.Don Dabbs and Skye Simpson at Chinook Ranch, AB (Photo by NCC) -
Click on the image to enlarge.Karol and Don Dabbs at an LIC event, Connop Property, AB (Photo by NCC) -
Click on the image to enlarge.Burrowing owls (Photo by Don and Karol Dabbs) -
Click on the image to enlarge.NCC and TNC joint meeting, Waterton, AB (Photo by NCC)
As an NCC Leader in Conservation (LIC), Don was a long-time supporter of NCC’s work in Alberta and across Canada. In addition to providing NCC with dozens of stunning images of Canada’s landscapes and species, Don supported the development of NCC’s science program in Alberta. He was a graduate of the University of Saskatoon’s bachelors and masters programs in plant ecology, with more than 40 years of professional experience in environmental science and environmental regulatory approvals.
Don also volunteered his time on NCC’s Board of Directors, serving as the Vice Chair of the Science and Stewardship Committee for several years. He served on the Alberta Regional Board of Directors from 2001-2004 and again from 2008-2013. His expertise, knowledge and mentorship played a key role in NCC’s work.
“If I were to select one particular accomplishment of Don’s in moving the NCC policy and practice forward both regionally and nationally, it would be his untiring work to get the Stewardship Endowment Fund established at NCC,” said Barney Reeves, a member of the Alberta Regional Board of Directors.
Recently, Don and his wife Karol spoke at an LIC event where they shared photos of their trip to Africa with other LIC members and guests. NCC supporters likely recognize many of their photos of Canada’s natural landscapes and species, which have been instrumental in helping to communicate our work to a wide audience.
Don is remembered as a true gentleman, generous with his time and committed to both science and the art of photography. He will be dearly missed by NCC colleagues and supporters across the country.
“Don has been a dedicated supporter, volunteer and videographer for NCC for many years. As a member of NCC’s Alberta board, the Alberta Science & Stewardship committee and the National Science Committee, Don was instrumental in helping bring many conservation projects to fruition. Don had many passions in life, two of which were his love of the outdoors and photography/videography, both of which he shared with his wife, Karol. Don and Karol generously donated their time and talents to NCC.” ~ Pierre Alvarez, Alberta Board Chair
