We are excited to announce this year’s recipients of the HCTF Don McCubbing Undergraduate Scholarship: Rebecca McCracken, and Kasper Giesbrecht
For several years, Don McCubbing actively contributed to the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation’s Fisheries Technical Review Committee. His extensive practical experience and science-based decision-making greatly enhanced the project review process. In honor of his contributions, the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation has established the Don McCubbing Scholarships. These scholarships, valued at $4,000 each, are awarded annually to up to five students who are pursuing studies in fish and/or wildlife conservation.
2026 Recipients
Kasper Giesbrecht
Kasper is a 4th year honours student in the Forest Science program at the University of British Columbia. He is working under the supervision of Dr. Morgan Piczak, examining the physiological performance and thermal tolerance of coho and Chinook salmon in the parr stage, following wildfire exposure. His research will observe the effects of fire on freshwater fish physiology and advance understanding of how wildfire affects a critical freshwater life stage.
Rebecca McCracken
Rebecca is currently studying at the University of British Columbia. Her research focuses on the thermal ecology and habitat use of juvenile white sturgeon in changing rivers, specifically the lower Fraser River. This research aims to identify these areas of refuge and provide recommendations about the protection necessary for the long-term survival of the white sturgeon.
