Mitch Murphy, Minister of Technology and Environment, has announced the Department is receiving funding applications for the Wildlife Habitat Improvement Program (WHIP). The program offers a range of support to organizations and community groups involved in wildlife habitat initiatives including direct financial assistance and technical support. The program will provide up to a 50% contribution to a maximum of $5,000, toward the total cost of an approved wildlife-related project. Applications for the WHIP program will be accepted until May 7, 1999.
"The 1998 season saw significant wildlife habitat improvement through the dedication of the Island's community groups," said Minister Murphy. Last year more than 70 projects submitted by over 50 organizations and community groups were financially supported by the WHIP program. The planting of almost 30,000 trees in the Malpeque area as hedgerows for wildlife corridors and correcting a barrier to fish migration on the North River are two examples of the positive initiatives funded through the WHIP program.
The Minister also announced the Wildlife Conservation Advisory Committee is accepting applications for the Wildlife Conservation Fund. The Prince Edward Island Wildlife Conservation Fund was created in 1998 to assist non-government wildlife conservation groups on PEI with their work. Money for the fund comes from a $13 contribution made once per year by each licensed angler, hunter and trapper. The deadline for applications under the Wildlife Conservation Fund is May 1, 1999.
These two funding initiatives support activities of non-government organizations in assisting the Department of Technology and Environment in conserving and enhancing wildlife and wildlife habitat across the province.
Application forms for both programs are available at the Department of Technology and Environment, Regional Services Centres, Access PEI or on-line through the PEI Government web page at www.gov.pe.ca.