2018 FEDERAL BUDGET: The Government of Canada makes strong commitment to biodiversity conservation
The Government of New Brunswick must now take action
New Brunswick, February 28, 2018 – Nature NB commends the Government of Canada for tabling a breakthrough budget for biodiversity conservation. “This budget is a crucial step in meeting Canada’s commitment to protect at least 17% of lands and inland waters by 2020” said Vanessa Roy-McDougall, Nature NB’s executive director.
By investing $1.3 Billion over 5 years to protect important natural areas, the Government of Canada is sending a clear message that biodiversity conservation is a priority and we applaud Finance Minister Morneau, Prime Minister Trudeau, and Environment Minister McKenna for this ground-breaking initiative. All levels of government, including indigenous communities, are ultimately responsible for protecting Canada’s endangered wildlife and safeguarding our country’s spectacular natural beauty for generations to come.
Over 95% of New Brunswick is unprotected. Nature NB urges the Government of New Brunswick to make a commitment to protect our ecologically significant areas. Nature NB and other provincial nature groups have the expertise and knowledge to identify areas that should be protected, but need the Government of New Brunswick to take action. “We look forward to assisting the Government of New Brunswick in developing a clear action plan that will ensure that all remaining old forest habitats and ecologically important wetlands, lakes and riparian ecosystems get the protection that they deserve,” said Roy-McDougall.
With species like the Piping Plover quickly disappearing from the shores around New Brunswick, there is no time to waste.
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For media commentary please contact:
Vanessa Roy-McDougall, Executive Director, Nature NB
506-459-4209 (office), 506-449-9197 (cell)
Executive.director@naturenb.ca
Nature NB is a non-profit, charitable organization whose mission is to celebrate, conserve and protect New Brunswick’s natural heritage, through education, networking and collaboration. In addition to encouraging a better understanding of the natural environment and awakening concern for our province’s natural heritage, Nature NB recognizes the importance of actions to preserve and maintain that natural heritage. We achieve both through various programs for youth and adults, and through the development of educational materials.
