Mr. Silver: Mr. Speaker, I would like to rise today on behalf of all of my colleagues in the Legislative Assembly to pay tribute to Dawson City resident and Yukon government employee, Martin Kienzler. Aside from his many contributions to the community, he was recently awarded the Outstanding Partner award by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.

His efforts and institutional knowledge, for that matter — in partnership with the US Fish and Wildlife Service — has contributed greatly to the management of the international Porcupine caribou herd. As the first hire for the regional wildlife technician for the northern Yukon region, Martin’s efforts, both in the field and in the office over the last 18 years, have undoubtedly contributed to the Porcupine caribou herd’s substantial population growth of almost 200 percent. His technical expertise and community engagement have fostered strong relationships and partnerships in both Canada and in the United States, in turn developing a strong and healthy Porcupine caribou herd, vital to the north.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to represent Martin and the many other community members who work hard to make the north prosperous and sustainable.