CHILLIWACK - Funding of $5.5 million is being provided through the Habitat Conservation Trust Fund for 115 fish and wildlife conservation projects across British Columbia, Water, Land and Air Protection Minister Joyce Murray announced today.

The province is providing an additional $943,000 to the B.C. Conservation Foundation for another seven priority conservation projects, including steelhead recovery and wildlife inventories and assessments. 

"Conservation is my number one priority when it comes to managing fish and wildlife populations," said Murray, who made the announcement at the B.C. Wildlife Federation's annual general meeting.  "Our government is committed to protecting British Columbia's spectacular natural diversity, and supporting partnerships with non-governmental agencies is an effective way for us to accomplish this goal." 

Major commitments by the Habitat Conservation Trust Fund this year are:

* $100,000 to partner with the Public Conservation Assistance Fund to enhance opportunities for local conservation groups to contribute to fish and wildlife conservation projects in their communities.

* $213,000 to support the Vancouver Island steelhead recovery plan.

* $180,000 to support the province's grizzly bear conservation strategy.

* $150,000 to support the Ducks Unlimited Canada wetlands partnership program.

* $150,150 to support Upper Columbia River white sturgeon restoration.

* $45,000 to support the ongoing educational activities of WILD BC.

* $326,500 for phase two of the Okanagan Lake action plan.

"These projects will help protect and maintain critical fish and wildlife habitat, as well as improve our knowledge and scientific understanding," said Murray.

The Habitat Conservation Trust Fund is supported primarily by surcharges on angling, hunting, trapping and guide-outfitting licences.  Voluntary contributions, court awards and sale of educational materials provide additional revenue.  Since 1981, the trust fund and its predecessor, the Habitat Conservation Fund, have provided more than $70 million to support conservation, enhancement and stewardship projects throughout British Columbia. 

The B.C. Conservation Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation and stewardship of B.C.'s species and ecosystems.

Contact:

Liz Bicknell
Director, Communications
250 387-9973
250 213-3072 (cell.)