Today, Parliamentary Secretary Randy Kamp and Member of Parliament Robert Sopuck, on behalf of the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans announced details of the federal government’s new Recreational Fisheries Conservation Partnerships Program. Funding of $10 million over two years was announced as part of the budget to support implementation of fish habitat conservation through conservation organizations.
Recreational fishing and angling groups and conservation organizations are welcome to apply for funding for projects that enhance or restore fisheries habitats such as removing a fish passage barrier or restoring a shoreline. Applications for funding will be accepted until Friday, July 12th, 2013.
“The program will bring like-minded partners together and pool resources to support the common goal of conserving and protecting Canada’s recreational fisheries,” said MP Sopuck. “The partnership approach will make the most of joint resources, allowing results that would not otherwise be possible.”
“This is welcome news that will help improve aquatic habitats for fish and a wide range of other aquatic life, as well as provide multiple benefits through improved water quality and positive economic impacts for all Canadians,” said CWF Director of Conservation Dr. David Browne.
This is also news Canadian Wildlife Federation supporters and partners should take pride in as CWF staff worked hard to help generate support for this funding, which, in a time of financial restraint, makes it particularly helpful. We look forward to working with government to ensure this important program is a success.