Josh Harper, a graduate from Lacombe Composite High School, is the recipient of this year’s Martha Kostuch Scholarship for Environmental Excellence sponsored by the Parkland Airshed Management Zone (PAMZ).  This fall Josh will enter the University of Alberta, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Conservation Services, majoring in Conservation Biology. 

“The award selection committee was extremely impressed by the combination of Josh’s demonstrated commitment to environmental stewardship, his historical scholastic performance, and his future environmental education and career aspirations” said Kevin Warren, PAMZ Executive Director.

Josh’s rural upbringing and close access to protected Crown land allowed him to develop his interest in native plants, noxious weeds as well as forest and soil sustainability. He has been an active member in his community and school, the Junior Forest Rangers, his local 4-H community and a local animal shelter.  

The Martha Kostuch scholarship is awarded annually to a high school graduate living in the PAMZ region (west central Alberta) who wishes to further their education in an area that will benefit the environment.  The scholarship was established in 2008 to honour the legacy of Dr. Martha Kostuch, a founding Board member of PAMZ and lifelong environmental advocate.

For more information, contact Kevin Warren at 403-862-7046 or Justine Gardner at 403-969-3730.