I stand today to acknowledge the great work being done by the Water Resources Management Division in my department, in terms of flood forecasting for Badger. The "Ice Progression Model" is a unique computer model, developed by the division, to simulate ice conditions on the Exploits River. It is crucial for providing advance flood warning to the residents of Badger and to our Fire and Emergency Services � Newfoundland and Labrador agency.

Since February 2006, this simulation model has been used, along with satellite RADAR imagery, for flood forecasting. Unlike visual images, RADAR images can penetrate cloud cover and do not require daylight. The technology can differentiate between various ice surfaces and open water. This allows for accurate location of the ice front and represents a major improvement in the flood forecasting capability, as the satellite imagery improves prediction of the timing of any impending floods. The initiative combines ground-and space-based observations to develop an integrated environmental monitoring capability.

We are working co-operatively with other organizations on this important monitoring service. The RADAR imagery service is provided by C-CORE and funded through the European Space Agency�s Global Monitoring for Environment and Security (GMES) program. The satellite images are provided by the Canadian Space Agency. And, I am pleased that Budget 2008 has allocated funding to assist with the continuation of this service. The data which we acquire through this flood monitoring model adds valuable information to our existing environmental disaster prevention services.

This model demonstrates our government�s commitment to use the best available technology to adequately monitor and alert, if necessary, the people of Badger of any potential flooding situations. It combines satellite radar images, weather forecasts and field observations, along with the expertise of staff in my department.

I commend the employees of the Water Resources Division for their significant work in the development of this model. Their expertise is grabbing the attention of nations throughout the world, and they are consistently asked to share their work with the international scientific community. They have presented papers in Frascati, Italy; Cambridge, England; and Yellowknife.

This is a wonderful example of the great work that is being done right here in Newfoundland and Labrador by our government in terms of service delivery to the people of the province and the global community.