NIAGARA ESCARPMENT BIOSPHERE NETWORK BLOG

In Memory of Patrick Robson

19/11/2024

In 1971, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) launched the Man and the Biosphere Programme. A decade and a half later in 1987, Patrick Robson stepped into the role of Community Development Planner for the Niagara Escarpment Commission. With his steady hand, it’s no surprise the Niagara Escarpment earned its UNESCO Man and the Biosphere designation in 1990. The Commission played a key role as the original promoter, manager, and oversight body for the Niagara Escarpment Biosphere (NEB) from its designation in 1990 until 2019 when governance transitioned to a non-government format. Patrick was a key driver of this more inclusive format.

After his time at the Commission, Patrick occupied various planning positions at the Regional Niagara Municipality of Niagara’s corporate office. For Integrated Community Planning he continued to pursue his passion for advancing the mandate of the Niagara Escarpment Biosphere.

Patrick’s leadership and problem-solving expertise were essential when, in 2012, a review of the Biosphere recommended moving its management away from government oversight to a not-for-profit community-based model. By 2015, Patrick had transitioned to his true passion – Professor of Environmental Studies at Niagara College, where he was able to leverage and “bend” new minds to further engage partners and brainstorm a new governance structure and collaborative network that valued diverse cultures and ideas. As an outcome, the Transitional Leadership Committee was founded by Patrick, Liette Vasseur (Brock University), and Victoria Serda (Bagida’waad Alliance). Their task was to define the main priorities and structure of the Committee, which included the need for more Indigenous engagement.

By 2021, the Transition Leadership Committee, in collaboration with Plenty Canada, continued working on reconciliation and governance initiatives. In July 2021, an agreement was signed to formalize co-management with Plenty Canada. By March 2022, the Niagara Escarpment Biosphere Network was officially incorporated as a not-for-profit organization, completing the transition. Patrick was elected as the first Chair alongside Co-chair Charlene Winger-Jones.

Beyond Patrick’s legacy in supporting the NEB, the time and talent he shared with numerous other boards and organisations that aligned with his core values and interests have been immeasurably impactful and appreciated. He was a loving husband of forty years to Kelly, a devoted father to Shelbi (Kevin) and Quinn (Maddie), and a proud Papa to Fenix and Dez. Patrick lived a full life with purpose and passion and enjoyed life’s simple pleasures.