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Souris & Area Branch of the P.E.I. Wildlife Federation
Notice Board


December 20, 2007

For immediate release

Minister Announces Recreational Fisheries Consultations

Environment, Energy & Forestry

Strategies and actions needed to enhance Prince Edward Island’s recreational fisheries will soon be open to public discussion and input. Today, Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry George Webster released the Recreational Fisheries Discussion Paper and website, www.gov.pe.ca/go/fishpolicy, and launched a process to create a recreational fisheries policy for PEI.

“An incredible amount of time and energy are being invested by non-governmental groups across Prince Edward Island into enhancement of the Island’s recreational fisheries,” said Minister Webster. “Although PEI has had various funding programs to assist with this work over the years, to date there has never been an overarching policy to guide this work or these investments.” In recent years, recreational fishing and wildlife groups have offered Government a variety of recommendations on issues such as stocking, enhancement programs and regulatory change. Minister Webster noted that it is difficult to evaluate the sometimes contradictory recommendations without a clear vision for recreational fisheries.

The Discussion Paper provides background on six core issues: angler recruitment, access, habitat restoration and land use, stocking, regulations and future threats. These issues have been identified by anglers themselves, as well as through a number of existing publications and recommendations. Minister Webster noted that this document will serve as the foundation for the upcoming consultations, but is not intended to be limiting. “The public will determine whether these are the important topics to be addressed in a new policy,” he added.

In releasing the Discussion Paper, the Minister also announced that the Recreational Fisheries Advisory Committee has agreed to act as host and consultative body for the policy hearings. This non-governmental body was formed in 2005 to advise Government on recreational fisheries issues. Its members include: Steve Cheverie of Souris, Todd Dupuis and Steve Murphy of Charlottetown, John Jamieson of Bonshaw, Daryl Guignion of Desable, Walter MacEwan of Summerside and Dale Cameron of Milburn. Fisheries Biologist Rosanne MacFarlane represents the Department on the committee, which plans to hold public meetings across the Island beginning in the new year. The schedule is available at www.gov.pe.ca/go/fishpolicy.

“Our recreational fishery is tremendously important to Islanders and I believe there is opportunity for enhancement and growth,” said Minister Webster. “Historically, PEI had some of the best fishing anywhere in North America. I believe that we can work together to regain some of what’s been lost and chart a course that will lead to the betterment of our recreational fisheries for all Islanders.”

BACKGROUNDER

Prince Edward Island’s Recreational Fisheries

1. What are recreational fisheries?

Recreational fisheries are those pursued for sport rather than for commercial purposes. Prince Edward Island’s main recreational fish species are Brook Trout, Rainbow Trout and Atlantic Salmon.

2. Why is recreational fishing important?

Recreational fishing is an important economic, social and environmental activity on PEI. The Survey of Recreational Fishing in Canada (2005) placed its value to the Island economy at more than $4 million annually, and noted it accounts for more than 8,600 nights lodging for non-residents as well as spending of more than $700 per non-resident angler and $500 per resident angler.

Recreational fishing involves some 7,000 Islanders each year as well as more than 600 non-residents. Anglers on PEI spend an average of 22.7 days at this active, outdoor activity, well above the national average of 13.7 days. Fishing is a valued tradition on PEI.

Much of the Island’s community-led environmental work has at its core a group of dedicated anglers. Many of our non-governmental watershed groups started out of a concern for the health of local rivers and fish populations. An average angler volunteers more than 10 days to enhancing recreational fisheries.

3. What is in the Recreational Fishery Discussion Paper?

The Discussion Paper identifies six Critical Issues found in existing documents, comments and recommendations. It poses Key Questions for each issue to help guide discussion, but is not intended to be limiting.

Highlights of the Critical Issues include:

i. Angler Recruitment - Angling is an important activity that connects people to the natural world around them, and many feel there is value in maintaining it. Surveys and license sales show a continued decline in angling participation – for example, on PEI resident angling licenses have dropped nearly 40% over the past decade.

ii. Access - More than 90% of PEI is privately owned and in most cases landowner permission is required to use these areas for recreational purposes. Some anglers feel that, given the large amount of public money invested in river restoration, the public should have access to these areas for angling.

iii. Habitat Restoration and Land Use - Soil erosion has long been identified as a major environmental problem on PEI. Over the years, fisheries enhancement work has evolved from “stream clearing” to broader habitat restoration efforts. Despite all this work, land use still limits stream health and habitat quality in many areas.

iv. Fish Stocking - Adding fish to PEI’s rivers and streams dates back more than 100 years. Unlike the early program, stocking today requires much planning to ensure fish health and regulatory requirements are met. Some anglers support stocking, while others feel the money would be better spent on habitat restoration.

v. Management and Regulations -In recent years, groups active in fisheries enhancement have recommended changes to PEI’s angling regulations to enhance both fish populations and the overall fishing experience. The majority of anglers who responded to a PEI survey did not support the proposed changes.

vi. Future Threats -Those working to enhance recreational fisheries today hope their efforts will last well into the future. To make this happen, future threats -issues such as climate change and invasive species - must be considered and addressed.

4. Why is a recreational fisheries policy needed?

Volunteer groups across the province are investing tremendous amounts of time and energy into fisheries enhancement – in-stream work, tree planting and improved land stewardship practices are all core components. Although PEI has had various funding programs to assist with this work, there has been no umbrella policy to set priorities, guide investment and ensure Government programs complement the efforts of volunteer groups. Both Government and the non-government sector would benefit from the creation of a clear vision for PEI’s recreational fisheries, with supporting goals, strategies and priority actions.

5. How will the public participate in policy development?

The non-governmental Recreational Fisheries Advisory Committee will lead the consultations. They will host meetings across PEI over the winter and invite Islanders to offer their comments and recommendations. The Committee will then prepare a report for Government, highlighting the results of the consultations and recommendations for PEI’s first Recreational Fisheries Policy. Government will evaluate this report and draft the policy. This format follows the model used successfully for creation of PEI’s Forest Policy.

6. Where can I find more information about the Recreational Fisheries Policy discussions?

The Discussion Paper can be found at www.gov.pe.ca/go/fishpolicy. This site will also include the consultation schedule, as well as the presentations and papers Islanders submit during the public consultations.


Wildlife Dinner

The Souris & Area Branch will be hosting their 27th Annual Fundraising Wildlife Dinner on Sunday, Dec. 9th at St. Mary's Hall Main Street, Souris.

Doors open at 4:00pm with hors d' oeuvres and steaming mussels available. The main course of our dinner will take place at 5:00pm.

Our traditional auction of many "wildlife Prints" by various artists will take place after the dinner with our auctioneer to be announced.

This year's dinner will be somewhat different, as our main dishes will consist of buffalo and fish. Rita Carter will once again be orchestrating the kitchen and supplying us with all the trimmings.

Tickets are $25 each with $10 of your purchase going towards our membership fees. These tickets can be purchased at Burke's Custom Metal works in Rollo Bay.

This event is our main fundraising activity of the year and we would appreciate your support.

If further information regarding tickets is needed, contact Fred Cheverie at (902) 687-3436.


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NEWS RELEASE
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November 14, 2007

WATER TESTING CLINICS TO TAKE PLACE ACROSS PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

CHARLOTTETOWN, PEI -- Islanders can have their drinking water tested for nitrates at a series of free clinics taking place across the Island.
The Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry will be bringing its analytical capabilities to the communities holding the clinics. This will make it simple and convenient for people to get their drinking water tested. They simply bring a one cup sample of water from their private well to the clinics.
These community-based "nitrate clinics" are the result of an early recommendation of the Commission on Nitrates in Groundwater, which is developing a strategy to address the issue of nitrate concentrations in water.
"We acted quickly to establish these clinics because we know Islanders are concerned about the quality of their drinking water," said the Honourable George Webster, Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry. "We are eagerly awaiting the Commission's final report so we can develop a plan to further address this important issue."
The Department of Environment, Energy & Forestry is investing $35,000 toward this project.
This service provides an instant report on the levels of nitrates in the samples provided by local citizens. If this screening test shows high concentrations of nitrate, there will be follow-up testing at no charge.
"It is important to raise awareness about this issue and to give people accurate information about the water in their well," said the Honourable Armand DesRoches, Chair of the Commission on Nitrates in Groundwater. "We are pleased to see the provincial government adopt this early recommendation of the Commission."
The Commission on Nitrates in Groundwater will report to the Premier by June 2008. The Premier has made the commitment to table the report in the Legislature.
Clinics will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the following locations:
November 17 - Souris Branch, PEI Wildlife Federation, Souris Striders Ski Club, Souris Line Rd.
November 24 - Southeast Environment Association, Kaylee Hall, Pooles Corner.
December 1 - Bedeque Bay Environmental Management Association, Kanata Club, Kinkora.
December 8 - Trout River Environmental Committee, New London Community Centre.
December 15 - Trout Unlimited, Prince County, Westisle School.

For information on nitrates and the work of the Commission on Nitrates in Groundwater, visit the website at www.gov.pe.ca/CommissiononNitrates or call 1-866-368-5044.

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For more information, contact by email Island Information Service by email or phone (902) 368-4000.


Souris & Area Branch Of the PEI Wildlife Federation Website Launch

The general public is invited to attend a public launch of the Souris & Area Branch of the PEI Wildlife Federation's website, Souris Branch of the P.E.I. Wildlife Federation website It will take place on Saturday, Nov. 10th, 2 – 4pm at the Souris Cap site 2nd floor Matthew McLean Building, Main Street, Souris.

Many prominent government officials and representatives of various organizations are expected to be present and short presentation will be made to the public.

The Souris & Area Wildlife Branch is slowly developing a website under the direction of Webmaster Waldron Leard. This site includes educational materials that will be beneficial to all students and adults.

As part of our launch, the winners of the 2007 photo contest will be awarded. The Grand Prize is donated by MacPhee's Home Hardware, with Ducks Unlimited Canada and Souris Wildlife Branch being co-sponsors of each of the four categories.

Fred Cheverie local watershed co-ordinator indicated that, " this photo contest developed into something beyond all our expectations". Our Photo Contest terminated with four hundred and seventy two entries (472). Our judging panel consisted of: Mark Stewart (resident of USA), Heather Fortingall (resident of Canada) and Dr. Hajnii Bahsara – Lassad (resident of Denmark). These very experienced photographers as well as world travellers have visited Eastern Kings Area several times and all find it one of their favourite places in the world to photograph. These judges were impressed with the entries and felt that sixty (60) of these entries would be capable of winning any credible photo contest.

This event will be a fun-filled and informative with tea, coffee and a light lunch served with all photo entries available for viewing.


There will be a special meeting of the Souris Branch of the P.E.I. Wildlife Federation on Thursday, November 1, 2007 at the Ski Lodge on Souris Line Road at 7:30 P.M. The meeting is regarding the fundraising dinner.


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October 24, 2007

ISLAND STUDENT'S ARTWORK FEATURED IN NATIONAL CALENDAR

CHARLOTTETOWN, PEI -- Island student Jessie Woods has earned a spot in a calendar being distributed nation-wide with her drawing promoting energy efficiency. The daughter of Cathy and Earl Woods of Souris West, Jessie is the winner of the Prince Edward Island poster contest for the 2008 Energy and the Environment Calendar. Produced by Natural Resources Canada to promote wise energy use and a healthy environment, the calendar features one drawing from each province and territory. About 135,000 calendars are distributed to households, schools and businesses across Canada.
The theme for the poster contest for the 2008 calendar was "Using Less ... Living Better." Through the poster contest, the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry invited young Islanders to learn about the environmental benefits of energy efficiency and renewable energy, as well as links between energy use and climate change.
Jessie's artwork, entitled "Don't Pollute the Environment," encourages the use of bicycles rather than cars, hanging clothes on the clothesline to dry, and using solar power. Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry George Webster recently visited Rollo Bay Consolidated School to present Jessie the contest prizes and speak with students.
"Jessie's drawing clearly shows how using energy more efficiently can help our environment," the Minister said. "The less energy we use, the less pollution we create and the cleaner our air is to breathe."
In addition to having her drawing featured in the calendar, Jessie received a mounted copy of her artwork, as well as a backpack and watch. The school also received a mounted copy of Jessie's artwork. A total of 175 Island students entered the contest for the 2008 Energy and the Environment Calendar. They all received participant prizes for their outstanding efforts.
"The students had some excellent ideas for conserving energy and protecting our environment," said Minister Webster. "I congratulate all the students and thank teachers for their efforts in helping young Islanders learn more about energy, energy efficiency and climate change."
To learn more about energy and our environment, Island students and teachers can visit the CalendarClub website at Calendar Club. Copies of the 2008 Energy and the Environment Calendar will be available at Access PEI sites throughout the province and from Island Information Service (1-800-236-5196) later this year.
For more information, contact Sandra Lambe, Environment, Energy & Forestry by email at or phone (902) 368-5286.


News release

CANADA'S NEW GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES $354,000 IN FUNDING FOR ECOLOGICAL GOODS AND SERVICES STUDY IN P.E.I.

CHARLOTTETOWN, Prince Edward Island, August 23, 2007 - The Honourable Christian Paradis, Secretary of State for Agriculture, on behalf of the Honourable Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Minister for the Canadian Wheat Board, today announced $354,000 in funding for a pilot project with the PEI Wildlife Federation aimed at enhancing environmental protection activities.

"Canada's New Government is committed to preserving and protecting the environment and assisting our farmers to do so as well," said Mr. Paradis. "This pilot project will help to measure the feasibility of new agri-environmental practices that promote environmental protection, and identify incentives to encourage farmers to adopt these new approaches."

"Members of the agricultural community are important stewards of the land and have invested heavily in environmental initiatives," said Prince Edward Island Minister of Agriculture Neil LeClair. "This pilot project will provide critical information to establish the value of the ecological goods and services farmers provide."

The Souris and Area Branch of the PEI Wildlife Federation in partnership with the Trout River Environmental Committee will receive funds to study the excess nutrients in waterways and sedimentation in many Island streams as part of the watershed study. The Federation represents the angling, hunting, conservation, naturalist and community sectors.

"We are very pleased to participate in a pilot project that has the potential to enhance waterways in our respective watersheds," said Fred Cheverie, coordinator of the Souris River Watershed Committee.

"We are also pleased to have farming operations that are willing to participate in such activities for the betterment of our environment."

The Prince Edward Island government is also providing $135,000 in in-kind support and funding for evaluation, monitoring and technical activities.

The agri-business Syngenta is investing $20,000 towards the pilot over two years. In-kind support will also come from the Prince Edward Island Federation of Agriculture, Ducks Unlimited and Cavendish Agri-Services.

John Colwill, President of the P.E.I. Federation of Agriculture, said the Federation is pleased to partner on this worthwhile project. "Farmers across the Island try their best to manage their land in a sustainable manner. This environmental stewardship also provides significant benefits to society," said Colwill. "This project will help measure the monetary value of these services and provide data on what is reasonable for society to invest to ensure the Island's environment is protected."

This study is one of the Ecological Goods and Services pilot projects being carried out across the country that will assist in measuring the feasibility and benefits of various approaches to environmental stewardship.

The funding for the pilot project comes from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's Advancing Canadian Agriculture and Agri-Food (ACAAF) Program. ACAAF is a national funding program designed to help implement innovative projects that will benefit the production and processing sector, bolster the industry's capacity to address current and emerging issues and position the agriculture and agri-food industry to seize new market opportunities.

In addition, earlier this spring the Prime Minister announced a $225 million investment in a national campaign to acquire and preserve ecologically sensitive land. Conservation groups will be identified to work towards this common goal. Also, tax exemptions are available for donations of ecologically sensitive lands to provide further incentives for Canadians to help preserve our environment.

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August 6, 2007

For immediate release

Free Forest Seed Workshop Offered

Environment, Energy & Forestry

Islanders interested in working outdoors to make a little extra money are invited to attend a free workshop on collecting, storing and selling seeds from the forest.

Nova Tree Company and the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry will host the Forest Seed Workshop at Watts Tree Farm in Kilmuir Saturday, August 11, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. The workshop will focus on a few of the more common species of small woodland plants from which seeds can be collected.

Sid Watts, Provincial Forest Products Marketing Development Officer with the Province says, when it comes to collecting seeds, timing is everything. Collecting at precisely the right time is not always easy.

“This workshop will provide Islanders with the opportunity to familiarize themselves with some of the woodland plants and learn how to properly collect seeds,” said Mr. Watts.

Topics covered during the morning workshop will be techniques for collecting, hulling, cleaning, sorting and storing seeds, as well as conservation.

“In the case of rare species, only a few seeds should be collected,” said Jim Verboom of Nova Tree Company. “It’s important to leave most of the rare plants alone so that they may self sow and perpetuate the species for future generations to enjoy.”

Pre-registration for the workshop is not required. The Watts Tree Farm is located at 2025 Heatherdale Road on Route 316, approximately four kilometres south of Montague. For more information on the workshop, call 838-0623.


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NEWS RELEASE
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July 6, 2007

MINISTER DECLARES AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES WEEK

CHARLOTTETOWN, PEI -- Prince Edward Island Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Allan Campbell has declared the week of July 8-14 as Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week. During this week, the department and the PEI Aquaculture Alliance will participate in a number of activities to promote awareness of the issues related to the impact and spread of aquatic invasive species.
"Aquatic invasive species are becoming a very significant issue in the waters off Prince Edward Island," said Mr. Campbell. "During this time, we want to increase the public's awareness of the problem and the measures that can be taken to slow the spread while solutions are being developed."
Mr. Campbell said issues related to the introductions of new aquatic invasive species have been increasing world wide. In Canada, conservative estimates place the combined economic losses and direct costs associated with invasive species at $5.5 billion. Prince Edward Island is no exception; in total, six new aquatic invaders have been introduced into Island waters since 1997. They are the oyster thief, the green crab, the clubbed tunicate, the golden star tunicate, the violet tunicate and the vase tunicate. "All these invaders are having a serious impact on this province's valuable shellfish industry," he said. "The landed value of shellfish is $30 million and economic value to the provincial economy is approximately $60 million. Addressing this growing problem is critical to the future of the industry."
The Minister said to date that the mussel industry has been the most heavily impacted by the invasive tunicate species.
Mr. Campbell announced a number of activities are being planned to mark the week.
The PEI Aquaculture Alliance has produced a guide to the identification of the aquatic invaders and provides instructions on what to do if they are identified outside of their known range. It also has information on how to properly clean boats to ensure that boating activities do not result in the further spread of invasive species. The Aquaculture Alliance has produced 7,000 booklets which will be distributed to commercial and recreational water users over the summer.
The department is delivering a radio ad campaign over the summer to remind recreational boaters the important role they can play in protecting Island waters from the spread of invasive species. Signs are also being placed at wharves and boat slips around the province reminding boaters to clean their boats and to report any suspicious findings.
As part of Aquatic Invasive Species Week, students from the provincial government's Environmental Futures Program will be at the Souris Sea Fest, Northport Aquatic Days and Montague Summerfest all on July 8 to distribute information about invasive species.
The Aquaculture Alliance and the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture will also be distributing information at an Out of the Sea and Over the Coals seafood barbecue demonstration featuring fresh Island mussels on Thursday, July 12 at Confederation Landing Park at 1 p.m.
The awareness campaign is being conducted with the support of a number of other federal and provincial departments and agencies and industry organizations. "As the newly-appointed Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, I look forward to strengthening partnerships with all sectors of the industry," said Mr. Campbell.
For more information, contact Kelly Cantelo, Fisheries and Aquaculture by email or phone (902) 368-5790.


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NEWS RELEASE
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June 27, 2007

TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC WORKS REMINDS ROAD USERS TO "TIE IT DOWN"

CHARLOTTETOWN, PEI -- Over the last few weeks, the Department of Transportation and Public Works Highway Safety Division has received several complaints from motorists about improperly secured objects being transported by Island vehicles. In some cases, these objects could strike other road users after coming loose from, or falling off, the vehicles carrying them. Of particular concern are pickup trucks, especially those without tailgates. People who drive those types of vehicles can often overlook the need to secure items stored on the truck bed. This presents a serious safety concern for Island road users.
It is a violation of the Highway Traffic Act (Section 222) if something falls off or out of a vehicle on the road. The driver of that vehicle could face a fine and could be liable should an accident occur. The Department of Transportation and Public Works would like to remind road users to make sure objects are properly secured or tied down before they are transported. For information on how to properly secure items for transport, contract the Department of Transportation and Public Works Highway Safety Division, at 368-5219.
For more information, contact Andrew Sprague, Transportation and Public Works by email or phone (902) 368-5112.


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NEWS RELEASE
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May 31, 2007

ISLANDERS ASKED NOT TO "RESCUE" YOUNG WILDLIFE

CHARLOTTETOWN, PEI -- Even though they have the best of intentions, Islanders are reminded that they should not try to "rescue" what looks like orphaned wildlife.
Randy Dibblee, a biologist with the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry, said provincial wildlife officials have received numerous calls in recent weeks from people concerned about young birds or animals that appear to be on their own. However, a young animal on its own does not necessarily mean that it has been abandoned.
"Many species will leave their young unattended, often for several hours or more, while they forage for food," Mr. Dibblee said. "In most cases, the adults are nearby and quite aware of their young, so handling or removing them from their natural environment exposes them to unnecessary stress."
Mr. Dibblee noted that this would also violate PEI's Wildlife Policy which prohibits keeping native wildlife in captivity. He urged Islanders who encounter young birds and mammals to simply leave them alone.
There are instances where young animals are orphaned through accidental death or natural predation, but each year, far more young are produced than is necessary to maintain the population of each wildlife species. This high birth rate is balanced by an equally high mortality rate. Predation and even accidents are natural and necessary processes to ensure the long-term health of wildlife populations.
Mr. Dibblee cautioned that people who pick up fledgling birds and young mammals may be risking their own health. Handling wild animals increases the risk of exposure to bites and pathogens such as parasites, bacteria and viral organisms.
For more information, contact Sandra Lambe, Environment, Energy & Forestry or phone (902) 368-5286.


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May 31, 2007

BIRD MONITORING FOR WEST NILE VIRUS RESUMES

CHARLOTTETOWN, PEI -- The Department of Health will resume its collection of dead birds beginning June 1, 2007 for the purpose of West Nile Virus testing. No dead birds have ever been found to carry this virus on PEI.
"The annual testing process is an important effort to help ensure that we do not have an increased risk of West Nile Virus in the province," says Dr. Lamont Sweet, Chief Health Officer. "Although we have not yet detected the virus in Island birds, it is essential to remain vigilant in our monitoring procedures."
Dead crows, ravens and blue jays are the only birds that will be tested. Residents can report dead birds for collection by calling the following numbers. In Charlottetown, call 894-5208 during regular working hours or 628-5039 after hours and on weekends and holidays. In the rest of the province, call 1-866-368-4603.
The birds will be tested at the Atlantic Veterinary College Lab in Charlottetown.
Dr. Sweet reminds residents not to handle dead birds with their bare hands. "Gloves should be worn while touching any dead bird and hands should be washed immediately after handling," he says.
For more information, contact Darlene Gillis, Health by email or phone (902) 368-6172.


April 25, 2007

For immediate release

Province Releases Report on Watershed Public Consultations - Significant New Funding Allotted for Watershed Planning and Management

Environment, Energy & Forestry

Premier Pat Binns and Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry Jamie Ballem today released the report on public consultations on managing land and water on a watershed basis. Outlining next steps in the process, the Premier and Minister announced additional funding of up to $750,000 this fiscal year to act immediately on some of the key recommendations, and they established an implementation committee to move forward on other recommendations.

Entitled We are all upstream, We are all downstream, We are all part of a watershed, the report was completed by the Environmental Advisory Council which is appointed under the Environmental Protection Act to advise the Minister on issues of environmental concern. The committee that carried out the consultations held five public meetings across the province and heard from hundreds of Islanders including watershed volunteers, farmers, fishers and tourism operators.

“I was glad to see so many people take part in the discussions,” said Premier Binns. “Protecting our watersheds, and planning and managing on a watershed basis is clearly a priority for Islanders. And it is a priority for Government. We will invest an additional $750,000 this year so that we can get to work on some of the key recommendations in this report and support watershed volunteers who make such a tremendous contribution to communities throughout the province.”

The Environmental Advisory Council report includes 43 recommendations under six broad categories: Governance on a Watershed Basis; Policies, Regulations and Programs; Education/Awareness; Research and Technical Support; Organization and Structure; and Funding.

Minister Ballem said Government will move forward immediately on three priority areas:
• Additional funding of up to $500,000 will be available this fiscal year for watershed groups to carry out watershed management activities and complete watershed management plans.
• Government will work with the University of Prince Edward Island and Holland College to establish a program whereby students get work experience while providing technical support to watershed groups.
• Funding of $100,000 will be invested to conduct a full cost analysis of the social, cultural and environmental costs of not taking action on key environmental issues in watersheds.

Minister Ballem said Government will establish an implementation committee to examine the other recommendations in the Environmental Advisory Council report and develop an implementation plan. The committee will be led by the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry and include representatives from other government departments, as well as watershed groups and other community representatives.

Both Premier Binns and Minister Ballem thanked the Environmental Advisory Council for their work in carrying out the public consultations. The committee was co-chaired by Sherra Profit, a Summerside lawyer, and potato and beef farmer Elmer MacDonald of Augustine Cove. Other members were Dr. Jim Kemp, a UPEI biology professor; and Don Matheson, a retired teacher and Christmas tree grower from Oyster Bed Bridge. Dr. Don Mazer, retired UPEI professor, facilitated the consultations and assisted in preparing the report.

The Environmental Advisory Council report on the public consultations is available online at www.gov.pe.ca/go/watershedconsultations or from Island Information Service at (902) 368-4000.


EricaErica is the eldest daughter of Kevin and Nancy MacIsaac of Bear River, and she currently resides in Little Pond. Erica graduated from UPEI in 2005 with a BSC, and has successfully completed her first year of the BED program at UPEI. She has taken a year long leave of absence from the BED program so she could accept the position of agri-environmental agrologist for the Souris Watershed area, as her contract does not expire until March 31 of 2008. Her position mainly involves working with farmers in the Souris Watershed area to incorporate beneficial management practices. This involves practices from both the Green Cover and EG&S programs including Environmental Farm Plans, nutrient management demonstrations, alternate watercourse structures, etc. Erica is very excited about her new job as it involves two things she loves: farming, and the great outdoors. Erica grew up on a farm and has grown to very much enjoy the occupation, and she is outdoors any chance she can get! If you have any questions or concerns, please contact her at (902) 583-2180 or (902) 940-3229. Additional information may be found HERE.


Souris & Area Wildlife Branch will host its regular monthly meeting at Souris Striders Ski Club on Wednesday May 9th at 7:30 pm. Guest speaker will be Carl Hansen from "Pheasants Forever". Agenda will be circulated at the meeting.


April 2, 2007

For immediate release

Minister Calls for Nominations for 2007 Environmental Awards

Environment, Energy & Forestry

Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry Jamie Ballem is encouraging Islanders to nominate someone in their community for the 2007 Prince Edward Island Environmental Awards. The awards, to be presented during Environment Week in June, recognize those who work to protect and enhance the Prince Edward Island environment.

“There are so many Islanders who deserve recognition – individuals who dedicate hours of volunteer time to environmental efforts, businesses that have reduced their impact on the environment, and community groups that have spearheaded environmental enhancement projects,” said Minister Ballem. “Through the Environmental Awards, the Province celebrates the tremendous contributions these people make to our quality of life in Prince Edward Island. I encourage Islanders to take the time to nominate a deserving citizen in their community.”

The deadline for nominations for the 2007 Environmental Awards is May 1. Nominations will be assessed by members of the PEI Environmental Advisory Council. To be eligible for an award, nominees must have been instrumental in:
• identifying, reducing, solving or avoiding an environmental problem;
• demonstrating consistently responsible environmental management practices; and/or
• promoting public awareness, understanding and active concern for the enhancement and protection of the environment.

The review committee will also consider the nominee’s long-term service and commitment; voluntary contributions; and innovative approach.

Last year's award recipients included Ruth Sturz who has been the driving force behind a long-term plan to beautify the West Royalty Elementary school property through the planting of native trees and shrubs; the PEI Model Forest Network Partnership for developing a positive working relationship among industry members, landowners, environmentalists, academics, tourist operators and individual Islanders with an interest in public and private forests; the Souris and Area Branch of the PEI Wildlife Federation for bringing watershed planning to the area; and Bluefield High School Student Council for carrying out the Youth Reduce: Control Our Consumption project to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Nomination forms for the PEI Environmental Awards are available online at www.gov.pe.ca/go/award, or by calling the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry at (902) 368-6920.


Souris & Area Branch of the PEI Wildlife Federation will be hosting their Annual "Family Fishing Day" at Rollo Bay Pond on Sunday May 27th with rain date June 3/2007. The Souris Branch is exceptionally pleased to have UPSE (Union of Public Sector Employees) as our official sponsor. The pond will be stocked, and a free barbeque will be offered. Take your kids, grandparents and come out and experience the fishing, laughter and hot dogs. The event will begin at 12:00pm and end at 4:00pm and volunteers from the Souris & Area Branch and UPSE will be on hand. No licenses will be required.


Souris & Area Branch of The PEI Wildlife Federation will be holding their "Annual Meeting" at Souris Striders Ski Club on Wednesday, March 14th at 7:30 pm. The meeting is open to the public and everyone is welcome to become involved. An agenda will be presented at a later date. For information contact Paul Campbell at 687-4326


Souris River Watershed Management Committee will be hosting a meeting for all agricultural producers of the Souris Watershed. The topic of discussion will "Farmers Input On The Ecological Goods and Services Pilot Project For The Souris Watershed." This meeting will take place at the Souris Striders Ski Club at 7:00 pm on Monday March 12th. Refreshments will be supplied compliments of MacPhee's IGA. For information contact Fred Cheverie at 687-3436


On February 28th, 2007 the Souris & Area Branch of the PEI Wildlife Federation received confirmation of approval on their application for the Prince Edward Island Ecological Goods and Services Pilot Project (EG&S) submitted to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. This EG&S pilot program is a new public policy concept in Canada which would provide recognition and financial incentives for existing stewardship activities as well as for the implementation of new environmentally sound farming practices. For more information contact Fred Cheverie at 687-3436


February 19, 2007

For immediate release

New Public Land Atlas Available Online

Environment, Energy & Forestry

Finding information on public lands in your community is now only a mouse click away. With overwhelming public response to the recently released Prince Edward Island Public Land Atlas, the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry has launched a new online version.

Minister Jamie Ballem said development of the atlas in the hard copy and on-line versions was one of the commitments in PEI’s new Forest Policy released last fall. The idea is to increase visibility of the 34,000 hectares (84,000 acres) of public lands that the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry manages. This includes Provincial Forests, Wildlife Management Areas and Natural Areas. The atlas also includes Provincial Parks, the PEI National Park and other areas of interest such as lighthouses and fishing locations.

“Public lands are managed and used for wildlife habitat, timber and non-timber products, and outdoor recreation such as fishing, hunting, trapping and birdwatching,” said Minister Ballem. “We want more people to visit these properties – to see how they are managed, to give us their suggestions for the future of these lands, and most importantly, to simply enjoy these beautiful properties.”

The online version of the Public Land Atlas divides the Island into 41 maps. Users can click on the map of the area they are interested in to access information. The maps are offered in PDF format but due to speed and size limitations for some users, the level of map detail is scaled down to allow for shorter download times. The atlas can be found at www.gov.pe.ca/gis.

Both the hard copy and the online versions of the Public Land Atlas were developed by staff in the department’s Geographic Information Section which produces high quality maps for a wide range of purposes. Minister Ballem acknowledged them for their dedication and excellent work. The hard copy Public Land Atlas is available for sale at the J. Frank Gaudet Tree Nursery complex in Charlottetown and through Island Information Service for $30 + GST. Copies of the older Prince Edward Island Atlas are also available at these locations and online at www.gov.pe.ca/gis


February 2, 2007

For immediate release

Environmental Advisory Council Encouraged by Participation in Public Consultations

Environment, Energy & Forestry

Judging from participation in public consultations, Islanders are passionate about the watersheds they live in and eager to share their visions for the future.

The PEI Environmental Advisory Council was asked by Government to carry out public consultations on managing land and water on a watershed basis. The group began the consultations this week with meetings in Charlottetown and Kinkora. Chair Sherra Profit said she and her fellow council members are very pleased with the participation so far.

“We have had Islanders from all walks of life participate in the discussions this week and they each had valuable information to share about their experience in their watersheds,” said Ms. Profit. “This is a topic that touches all of us and it’s great to see so many people take the time to share their views.”

Twenty individuals or groups made formal presentations or comments at the meetings and several others have mailed or emailed submissions. Presenters to date have included watershed groups, a community council, tourism operators and landowners.

Ms. Profit said the council is hoping for a strong turnout at the remaining public meetings. They are:
• February 5 at The Whim Inn, Pooles Corner;
• February 7, at the Royal Canadian Legion in Miscouche; and
• February 13 at Westisle Composite High School, Elmsdale.

All meetings will be 7-9 p.m.

Several groups – including community and environmental groups and agricultural organizations – are already scheduled to make presentations at the upcoming meetings. Groups and individuals who would like to add their name to the list are asked to register in advance by calling (902) 368-5044 or toll-free 1-866-368-5044, and provide a written summary of their presentation (no more than three pages). All submissions will be posted on the consultation website: www.gov.pe.ca/go/watershedconsultations.

Those unable to attend a public meeting, may also send comments by email to environment@gov.pe.ca or by mail to Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry, Environmental Advisory Council Public Consultations, 11 Kent Street, PO Box 2000, Charlottetown, PEI, C1A 7N8. The deadline for written comments is February 14, 2007.

For more information on the consultations and to read the summaries of presentations, visit www.gov.pe.ca/go/watershedconsultations.

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Souris Branch of the P.E.I. Wildlife Federation

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