Environment and Conservation
April 11, 2011
The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Ross Wiseman, Minister of Environment and Conservation:
National Wildlife Week Promotes Importance of Resource
Environmental Network AGM and Conference
National Wildlife Week is being celebrated April 10-16 and highlights the importance of wildlife to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. It also provides an opportunity to reflect upon the importance of healthy wildlife populations and habitat to our social and economic well-being.
Newfoundland and Labrador’s wildlife resources are at the heart our province’s heritage and culture. Our vast landscape is diverse, as are the wildlife species that inhabit it. From the largest big game animals to insects and rare plants, the Department of Environment and Conservation is responsible for managing and conserving Newfoundland and Labrador’s biodiversity and wildlife resources for the benefit of present and future generations.
Good wildlife management starts with good research. Studying wildlife interactions, distributions, populations and habitat use forms the basis for sound wildlife management decisions. Without a clear understanding of the biology of our wildlife species, we cannot plan appropriate management strategies. This week is a time not only to celebrate the value of our wildlife resource, but also the many individuals who are involved in the conservation and sustainable use of wildlife and habitat in our province.
During National Wildlife Week, provinces and territories partner with the Canadian Wildlife Federation to inform and educate the public on environmental and wildlife issues. The Department of Environment and Conservation is hosting a number of activities throughout the province. Staff of my department in Corner Brook and Salmonier Nature Park are launching a number of events for individuals and schools across the province, focusing on wildlife species and their importance to the environment. A list of these activities is available on the department’s website and has also been published in local papers.
I encourage the residents of our province to participate in our National Wildlife Week activities, and join with me as we celebrate this important week.
2011 04 11 1:45 p.m.