The Department of Transportation and Public Works, in partnership with the Evangeline Tourism Association, has now completed a second Highway Naturalization and Enhancement Pilot Project along the Western Road through the Miscouche area. This effort complements a previous successful Highway Naturalization and Enhancement Pilot Project along the Charlottetown Arterial Highway.
"The success of this project demonstrates the effectiveness of community partnerships in meeting shared goals," said Transportation and Public Works Minister Don MacKinnon. "As a result of this effort, we have successfully addressed a number of transportation, forestry and environmental issues in a more holistic approach which should have a positive long-term community impact."
The Western Highway Naturalization and Enhancement Pilot Project saw a technique known as selective tree removal employed which addressed undesirable tree species while focussing attention on existing native tree species along the roadside, allowing more desirable plant species a better opportunity for growth. Department staff also paid particular attention to the preservation of existing wildlife habitat, especially amphibian habitat.
In total, department staff completed work along both sides of the Western Road between Miscouche and Wellington, covering a distance of approximately four kilometres.
"The public response to the project has been overwhelmingly positive," said Caroline Arsenault, President of the Evangeline Tourism Association. "One of the long-term impacts of this project will be to enhance the marketability of our region to tourists."
Future Highway Naturalization and Enhancement Projects will be determined by the level of community interest and the availability of resources. Interested communities and groups can learn more about sponsoring a Highway Naturalization and Enhancement Project in their area by contacting their local community development officer or the Community Development Bureau at 368-6360.