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NLIS 3
January 18, 2006
(Environment and Conservation)
 

New agreement advances boreal conservation in Newfoundland and Labrador

Tom Osborne, Minister of Environment and Conservation, and Cathy Wilkinson, Director of the Canadian Boreal Initiative (CBI), today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to work cooperatively to advance the establishment of protected areas in the province�s boreal region. The new partnership recognizes that the boreal regions of Newfoundland and Labrador present significant opportunities for conservation and sustainable development, and reflects government�s commitment to protect the province�s environment and natural heritage.

"This new partnership will enhance the collection of scientific and traditional ecological knowledge on our study areas in order to move them towards wilderness or ecological reserve status," said Minister Osborne. "It will also provide expertise to facilitate dialogue among provincial, national, and international organizations interested in advancing protected areas."

"We welcome Newfoundland and Labrador�s ongoing interest in, and commitment to, working in partnership to advance shared conservation objectives," said Ms. Wilkinson. "In the spirit of the Boreal Forest Conservation Framework, this new agreement acknowledges that large intact areas in the province represent globally-significant conservation opportunities. We are pleased to be partnering with Newfoundland and Labrador in this new agreement, while continuing our collaborative work with WERAC, the Innu Nation, the Protected Areas Association and others in the province."

The MOU signing coincides with the celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the Wilderness and Ecological Reserves Advisory Council (1980-2005). Established through legislation, the council�s role is to advise the provincial government on the establishment and management of wilderness and ecological reserves in Newfoundland and Labrador. More than 60 individuals have served on the advisory council since its inception, demonstrating dedication and commitment by volunteering and working to protect special ecosystems and wilderness in the province.

"WERAC plays an important role in the preservation and protection of the natural areas of our province," said Minister Osborne. "I commend and thank all current and former members of the advisory council for your work and dedication. Your efforts have resulted in the establishment of a collection of protected areas that will serve as a legacy for all generations and ensure the preservation of province�s magnificent natural heritage."

"Tonight we will be celebrating and reflecting on the accomplishments of the past, and with our new partner, the Canadian Boreal Initiative, looking forward to the opportunities and challenges of the future," said Dr. John McCarthy, WERAC co-chair.

Currently there are a total of 18 wilderness and ecological reserves in the province, including Cape St. Mary�s Seabird Ecological Reserve, Mistaken Point Fossil Ecological Reserve, Bay du Nord Wilderness Reserve and Burnt Cape Botanical Ecological Reserve. For more information, visit www.gov.nl.ca/parks.

The Canadian Boreal Initiative is an independent organization working with industry, Aboriginal people and conservationists to link science, policy and conservation activities in Canada�s boreal region. For more information, visit www.borealcanada.ca.

Media contact:
Diane Keough, Department of Environment and Conservation, (709) 729-2575, 685-4401
Kelly Acton, Canadian Boreal Initiative, Cell (613) 762-2525

2006 01 18                                  1:00 p.m.


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