Appointments to the Prince Edward Island Wildlife Conservation Fund Advisory Committee were announced today by Mitch Murphy, Minister of Technology and Environment. "I am very pleased with the calibre of the individuals appointed to sit on the Advisory Committee. Each offers a great deal of expertise and experience that will benefit the ability of the Fund to provide the best decisions on project and funding priorities," said Minister Murphy. Established earlier this year, the Fund is designed to provide funding for priority community-based initiatives directed at conservation of wildlife and habitat.
Representing a diversity of wildlife interests, including anglers, hunters, watershed groups and naturalists, Committee members met recently with Minister Murphy to review their terms of reference. The Committee will advise the Minister on priorities and allocation of available funds, review applications and counsel the Minister on administration of the Fund. Todd Dupuis of Charlottetown was selected by the Committee to serve as Chair of the Committee with Kate MacQuarrie of Hazel Grove to serve as Vice-Chair.
Appointed to the Wildlife Conservation Fund Advisory Committee are:
Shawn Hill, North Granville
Gary MacAdam, Morell
Steve Cheverie, Souris
Todd Dupuis, Charlottetown
Albert Arsenault, St. Gilbert
Clarence Ryan, Orwell
Kate MacQuarrie, Hazel Grove
Dan MacAskill, Donagh
John Clements, New Glasgow
The Conservation Fund is supported by an annual contribution from all licensed anglers, hunters and trappers. Islanders are already benefiting from the Fund. An annual commitment of $60,000 is allocated to the Atlantic Veterinary College (AVC) in support of the cost of operation of the Cardigan Fish Hatchery's trout and salmon enhancement program. The first financial installment from the Fund was received by the AVC earlier this summer. The balance of the fund is available for priority, community-based wildlife conservation projects.
"With the establishment of the Fund and now with the Advisory Committee in place, conservation efforts in Prince Edward have a stable base that allows for long term planning," said Mr. Murphy. After meeting only once, the committee is already moving ahead with plans and hopes to have an information package available this fall outlining the application process and funding priorities for 1999-2000.