Habitat Conservation Fund

Nine projects focussing on wildlife conservation were approved for funding by Natural Resources Minister Ernest Fage under the new Habitat Conservation Fund. Money for the Habitat Conservation Fund is generated through the required purchase of a Wildlife Habitat Stamp on hunting licences. The stamp was recommended by the Nova Scotia Federation of Anglers and Hunters, and the fee is $2.

"This fund provides an excellent opportunity for non-government organizations or individuals to gain financial support for the work they are doing in support of wildlife," said Mr. Fage. "One hundred per cent of the funds collected will be used for habitat conservation research."

The nine approved projects, totalling $114,442, were reviewed and recommended by an independent board of directors consisting of members from hunter, naturalist and academic associations.

"This special fund was recommended and developed with the support of the hunting community," said Tony Rodgers, executive director of the Nova Scotia Federation of Anglers and Hunters. "As members of the board of directors and partners in this program, we will help to ensure that all the moneys generated will be used specifically for habitat conservation programs."

The primary goal of the fund is to assist with programs that protect and enhance wildlife habitats. Projects will be funded up to 75 per cent on a cost-shared basis and must fall into one of four categories: purchase of land for the benefit of wildlife, habitat improvement, wildlife habitat research and related education programs.

Successful recipients of the first year of funding, and their projects, are:

• Bird Studies Canada: Making Nova Scotia's Lakes Loon Friendly
• Ruffed Grouse Society of Canada, Nova Scotia Chapter: Upland Game Habitat Enhancement
• St. Francis Xavier University: Woodlot Enhancement in Pictou Landing
• The Nature Conservancy of Canada: Gaff Point Campaign
• Bluenose Atlantic Coastal Action Program: Coastal Island Conservation
• Shelburne County Fish and Game Association: Improve Nesting Success of Eider Ducks
• Randolf F. Lauff: Boreal and Northern Saw-whet Owls in Enhanced Habitats
• Nova Scotia Nature Trust: A Forest Legacy
• Halifax Wildlife Association: Waterfowl Hunter Education Program--Habitat Component

"I commend the board of directors of this fund for their dedication and their work," said Mr. Fage. "I appreciate their efforts in determining which of the 14 submitted projects were to be selected."

Applications are now being accepted for 2001-02. Submission guidelines and application forms can be obtained from any Department of Natural Resources office or on the Web site at www.gov.ns.ca/natr/wildlife/habfund . Applications must be received by the department's Wildlife Division by Feb. 1, 2002.