Linda Duncan pays tribute to crash victim Alberta biologist Kristina Norstrom
Channel: Linda Duncan
Date: 2013-06-01

May 31, 2013 Statement:

 Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I rise today to observe the tragic loss on May 29 of Alberta wildlife biologist Kristina Norstrom, killed in an accident in northern Alberta.

    The Alberta public service and scientific community have lost a friend and respected colleague. Sadly, helicopter pilot Bryce Campbell was also killed. Also on board was fellow biologist and colleague Simon Slater, currently recovering in hospital from serious injuries.

    This tragedy occurred when the helicopter crashed south of Wood Buffalo National Park in northern Alberta. The biologists were tracking threatened woodland caribou populations.

    Kristina worked as a wildlife biologist stationed out of Athabasca and was engaged in tracking caribou. I am told she was an extremely dedicated and confident professional who truly made a difference in wildlife conservation and protection. She was well respected by her colleagues and will be deeply missed.

    The dedicated work of our wildlife biologists, scientists and support staff all too often places them in perilous situations. It is important that we recognize and value that sacrifice made on all our behalf and for the species they seek to protect.

    Our thoughts and prayers go out to their families during this difficult time.