MacQuarrie presented with Janice Simmonds Award

PEI biologist Kate MacQuarrie was presented with the Janice Simmonds Award at the Friends of the Farm Annual General Meeting in Charlottetown on November 27.

The Janice Simmonds Award is given annually by the Friends of the Farm to an individual or group in recognition of significant contribution to the creation, protection, preservation, or management of public green spaces on Prince Edward Island.

"I am truly honoured to be this year's award recipient", said MacQuarrie. "I commend Friends of the Farm for all the work you do, and thank you for both the invitation to speak here tonight and for presenting me with this award."

MacQuarrie spoke on the topic of Urban Botany. She highlighted some of the many edible and medicinal plants in PEI's towns and cities, as well as the importance of urban green spaces to both people and wildlife. The presentation was followed by a Q&A session with the group, which covered a broad range of local plant and wildlife topics.

The Award was named for the late Janice Simmonds who was chair of the Friends of the Farm and who led with passion to keep the Experimental Farm in Charlottetown as a green space for all to enjoy. It was presented by Janice's daughter, Kali Simmonds.