The 2025 Canadian Paleontology Conference, hosted by the Geological Association of Canada, took place on November 21 and 22. After two days of presentations, the event culminated in the presentation of two awards. One of these was the Avocational Paleontology Award, which was created in 2022 to recognize and celebrate the contributions of non-professional palaeontologists, sending the message that avocational palaeontologists are important and can make enormous contributions to the field of palaeontology.
The Tumbler Ridge Museum had nominated Kevin Sharman for this award, given his long-standing record of making substantial fossil discoveries and his support for the museum and palaeontology. We knew that there was stiff competition, as many strong submissions for other candidates from across Canada had been received by the awards committee. The tension was relieved when it was announced that the 2025 award would go to Kevin, who had attended the conference and was therefore able to make a short acceptance speech.
The following is extracted from his nomination:
“Kevin spent his entire career as a mining geologist in the Tumbler Ridge area, and retired in 2021. He therefore developed an unparalleled appreciation of the complex geology of the Tumbler Ridge area. Once the first dinosaur tracks were found, this expertise became vital in targeting further areas for exploration. Kevin was ideally suited for this, as he and his wife Birgit enjoy hiking and exploring, more often than not going off-trail into remote areas that might harbour promising rock exposures.
Soon there was no stopping Kevin, and the discoveries kept pouring in. His role as a volunteer and scientific advisor to our museum has represented the intersection of geology and paleontology, and the intersection of paleontological heritage with industry. Thanks to his influence and the esteem in which he is held, our relationship with regional industry is outstanding, and forms a model for others to emulate.”
Notable discoveries have included numerous Triassic fossil fish and marine reptiles, and globally important crocodile swim traces. He has been a co-author on two major, peer-reviewed scientific publications.
Kevin and his wife Birgit have been good ambassadors for palaeontology in Tumbler Ridge, often hosting visiting scientists. Kevin’s input on our museum’s Research Group is always measured, well thought out, and cautious – good attributes for any palaeontologist. He has been passionate in advocating for responsible management and protection of fossil sites.
It is not every day that a Tumbler Ridge resident receives a national award like this. We congratulate him on his well-deserved award, and look forward to many future fossil discoveries!
