Fisheries and Environment Minister, the Honourable Kevin J. MacAdam today advised the Legislature of the favourable rating Prince Edward Island has received from World Wildlife Fund Canada for its efforts at protecting natural areas, in support of the National Endangered Spaces Program. For the year 1996/97 Prince Edward Island has been awarded an overall B grade, the third highest in the country. "Islanders should be very proud of the progress made to date -- I know I am," said Mr. MacAdam.
Under the Endangered Spaces Program, Prince Edward Island has a goal to protect 7 percent of the Province by the Year 2000. The continued improvement in protecting PEI's natural areas is a testament to the interest and concern, not only of government, but of Island landowners. To quote from the Endangered Spaces Progress Report, "Prince Edward Island continues to make advances in its protected areas system in a landscape that is more than 90 percent privately owned" noted Mr. MacAdam.
The Minister also acknowledged the ongoing contribution of the Island Nature Trust to the Endangered Spaces Program. "Without their expertise, hard work and determination we would have a much more difficult time as we work toward achieving our goal. Thanks to Kate MacQuarrie, Executive Director of the Island Nature Trust, and all her very capable staff and volunteers," said Mr. MacAdam.
Among the activities that have significantly contributed to the improved grade are the halting of the proposal to harvest peat in East Baltic Bog, ensuring protection of this unique area; the signing of an agreement between the PEI and federal governments to incorporate the Greenwich Dunes ecological lands into the Prince Edward Island National Park; and the designation of crown lands at Southampton as a Wildlife Management Area.
Mr. MacAdam also confirmed his announcement of earlier this year concerning public consultations that will take place on how to establish marine conservation areas around the province.
"Prince Edward Island has currently achieved a little over a third of the 7 percent goal. With continuing efforts by government and the support of all Islanders, I am confident that we can achieve our goal by the year 2000," noted Mr. MacAdam.