MacAdam Announces Funding For Wildlife Projects

Minister of Fisheries and Environment Honourable Kevin J. MacAdam today announced sixty projects have been approved for funding under the Wildlife Habitat Improvement Program (WHIP). "While project funds totalling over $178,000 has been granted, the total value of the projects being supported is estimated at over $1.3 million. The level of activity in this area underscores the importance Islanders place on the wildlife resource," said Minister MacAdam. Designed to assist in the protection and enhancement of wildlife habitats, the WHIP program offers a range of support to organizations and community groups involved in wildlife habitat initiatives including direct financial assistance, and technical support.

Projects receiving funding involve education of the public to wildlife habitat needs as well as stream enhancement projects, agricultural-based wildlife projects, hedgerow development and protection and management of wildlife habitats in a variety of situations. The program provides up to a 50 percent contribution of the total cost of an approved project with a maximum contribution of $5,000 to any one project.

Over the last several years the interest and dedication of community-based groups pursuing wildlife habitat initiatives have resulted in significant habitat improvement across the province. I have no doubt this year will show the same positive results," said Mr. MacAdam. The Minister encouraged interested groups to contact the Department of Fisheries and Environment for more information and application forms on the Wildlife Habitat Improvement Program.