habitat. However, development and industrial pressure in the Rocky Mountain region are reducing the bears' numbers. Collaborative activities In 2015, Mountain Equipment Coop (MEC) partnered with CPAWS as the project sponsor for the "MEC Big Wild Challenge" to encourage people to connect more with nature by being more active outdoors. This included a challenge for individuals to complete a specific Trail Run on September 19 in participating municipalities or to design their own outdoors in nature challenge. The overall goal was to protect the wilderness. History CPAWS was initially known as the National and Provincial Parks Association (NPPAC). The NPPAC formed in 1963 with a focus on revitalizing Canadian's appreciation of wilderness parks. Since this time CPAWS' role and national network has expanded. The organization has been a key citizens' group in many decisions relating to the establishment of new parks and wilderness areas and in obtaining significant conservation outcomes through land-use planning processes in many parts of Canada. CPAWS' name through history has been strongly associated with iconic Canadian parks such as Banff, Nahanni, Algonquin, Quetico and Tatshenshini, and with establishing the Muskwa-Kechika Management Area. CPAWS' role has been significant in many other successful conservation efforts as well, ranging from the establishment of the Forest Stewardship Council to designing land-use planning processes that result in nature protection through a variety of mechanisms. CPAWS has also been at the forefront of the drive to establish marine protected areas in Canada and played a leading role in the passage of the National Marine Conservation Areas Act. It continues to be Canada's leading voice for parks and protected areas management. James B Harkin Conservation Award In 1972, CPAWS established the James B. Harkin Conservation Award, which is awarded to Canadians who promote conservation. Recipients of the Harkin Award include: 2013 John Marsh, Ric Careless and Harvey Locke 2011 Nikita Lopoukhine 2010 The Panel on Ecological Integrity of Canada's National Parks 2008 Bob Peart 2007 Dr. Jim Thorsell 2005 Dr. J. Gordon Nelson 2003 Mike Harcourt, Derek Thompson 2002 Elizabeth May 2001 Monte Hummel 2000 Mike and Diane McIvor 1999 Dr. Stephen Herrero 1998 Dr. John Theberge (with special recognition of Mary Theberge) 1997 Cliff Wallis 1996 Chief Emeritus Ruby Dunstan 1994 Dr. J. Stan Rowe (d. April 6, 2004) 1992 Jennifer Shay, Vernon C. Brink 1990 Andy Russell, (d. June 1, 2005) 1989 Gavin Henderson 1987 Alex T. Davidson 1985 Michael J.