Nova Scotians Support Species at Risk Projects

Wood Turtles, Long's Bulrush and the Piping Plover are among a number of Nova Scotia species that will benefit from this year's Species at Risk Conservation Fund.

Thirteen projects will be supported with more than $80,000 from the fund, which is financed primarily through the Nova Scotia conservation licence plate program.

"Nova Scotians continue to support this program through the purchase of conservation licence plates," said John MacDonell, Minister of Natural Resources. "These projects will address conservation concerns for the most threatened species of plants and animals."

Some of the research and stewardship initiatives aim to describe and protect habitat for more than eight species at risk along with monitoring and inventory for many other species that are a high priority for conservation. Other projects will address species like dragonflies, freshwater mussels, and rare plants that are being considered for legal listing under the Nova Scotia Endangered Species Act.

The individual awards range from $3,000 to $8,000 and will contribute to ongoing efforts of scientists and conservation groups to improve the situation for species at risk. A title and brief description of each of the 13 projects is available at www.gov.ns.ca/natr/wildlife/sarfund/sarcfprojects09.htm .

The Nova Scotia Endangered Species Act lists 42 species at risk. The act provides legal protection against killing and disturbing the species. However, their futures are tied to improving awareness, understanding and collective commitment to limit activities that impact on wildlife.

The Nova Scotia conservation licence plate program was established in 2002 by the Department of Natural Resources and Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations to raise awareness and provide support for species at risk. The plate features the colour graphic of a piping plover and the message: Conservation -- Species at Risk. The plates can be purchased at Registry of Motor Vehicles offices.

More information about Nova Scotia conservation licence plates is available at www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/rmv/registration/conservationplate.asp .