Distinguished Service Award
Rocky Point Bird Observatory Society (RPBO) relies on the skills and dedication of an army of volunteers who contribute to our mission in many ways. RPBO has established two recognition awards (to be given annually): the Distinguished Service Award, which honours an RPBO member who has generously volunteered their time for RPBO over an extended period, and the Honourary Life Membership Award, which is awarded to a member whose involvement with RPBO has been exceptionally long and dedicated.
Nominations are sought from RPBO members. Nominations must include a statement outlining why you consider the nominee worthy of the award. Include a brief biographical sketch and a description of the contributions and achievements of the nominee, along with their contact information. The awards committee may follow up for more details if necessary.
Confidential nominations should be sent to the Awards Committee at development@rpbo.org
Congratulations to Andrew Harcombe
Recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Service Award
Andrew has dedicated his life to understanding and protecting the landscapes of British Columbia, driven by a lifelong passion for natural history and a profound love for birds that continues to inspire everyone around him. His work has helped shape how we care for the natural places we value today. Holding a Master’s degree in Ecology from the University of Victoria, he built a distinguished career as a conservation biologist with deep expertise in vegetation ecology, rare species, and ecosystems. In the 1990s, Andrew became the first Coordinator of the BC Conservation Data Centre, providing visionary leadership until his retirement and fundamentally shaping how B.C.’s biodiversity is preserved through the rigorous collection and sharing of scientific data.
His profound impact extended to Rocky Point Bird Observatory (RPBO), where he has served on the board since 2014, seamlessly stepping into vital roles including President, Vice President, Secretary, Migration Program Coordinator, and Membership Director. Andrew's extensive professional network and leadership skills were the driving force behind the successful acquisition of Hummingbird Hill.
Beyond RPBO, his commitment to the broader conservation community is widely recognized; he has served on non-profit boards at both national and international levels - including NatureServe Canada and the Habitat Acquisition Trust in Victoria - and is known for his willingness to step up and step in to roles whenever needed. Currently serving as the President of Nature Victoria and a long-time volunteer at the Tatlayoko Lake Bird Observatory in the Chilcotin, Andrew brings thoughtfulness, integrity, and a quiet commitment to doing what matters most for birds and their habitats. These enduring contributions will benefit wildlife and communities for generations to come.
Rocky Point Bird Observatory thanks you for your extraordinary leadership, your unwavering dedication, and your lifetime of service to conservation.
