- Date
- lundi 19 octobre 2020
Dominic Boucher, long-time executive director of Avalanche Quebec, is recognized for his dedication to public avalanche safety.
Each year, Avalanche Canada presents the Gordon Ritchie Service Award to an individual or organization who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to public avalanche safety. This year, the award goes to Dominic Boucher, the long-time executive director of Avalanche Quebec.
Dominic has played a leading role in promoting avalanche safety in Quebec for over 20 years.
On Jan. 1, 1999, an avalanche struck a school in the remote community of Kangiqsualujjuaq, Quebec during a New Year’s celebration, killing nine and injuring 25. An inquiry into the tragedy called for the establishment of a centre of avalanche safety in the province. Dominic was tapped to lead the new Centre d’avalanche de la Haute Gaspésie.
Over the years, he has overseen the organization as it has grown to become Avalanche Quebec and, this year, celebrating its 20th anniversary. Avalanche Quebec provides education and outreach in La Belle Province, and produces daily avalanche forecasts for the Chic Choc Mountains. Dominic oversees a staff of seven that includes three avalanche technicians, three forecasters, and a communications specialist.
Dominic has also been instrumental in developing the next generation of avalanche professionals in Quebec. Since 2004, he has taught over 200 students in their first level of professional training, the CAA Avalanche Operations Level 1. Avalanche Quebec is a key partner as Avalanche Canada implements its national strategy and we would not be here today without Dominic’s contributions.