October 3, 2008
LUNDAR – The new West Interlake Watershed Conservation District is being launched with a $150,000 provincial startup grant, Water Stewardship Minister Christine Melnick announced at the organization’s new office here today.
“We are pleased to work closely with local groups such as this
new conservation district who show insight and a commitment to
deliver more effective land and water management,” said
Melnick. “The new West Interlake Conservation District will help
ensure a co-ordinated, long-term planning approach to water
resources for people who live between Manitoba’s two largest
bodies of water, Lake Manitoba and Lake Winnipeg.”
The West Interlake Conservation District is located along the
eastern shores of Lake Manitoba and has six partners including
the rural municipalities of Armstrong, Coldwell, Eriksdale,
Siglunes, St. Laurent and Woodlands.
“Our new conservation district and the six rural municipalities
are looking forward to starting this partnership with the
province to bring an effective approach to watershed planning
that will enhance the quality of life for all area residents,”
said Doug Oliver, chair of the West Interlake Watershed
Conservation District.
Approximately 6,500 people live within the boundaries of the
conservation district, which covers about 4,500 square
kilometres.
“Local stakeholders are the key to success in the watershed
planning process,” said the minister. “Their work is paramount as
it assists us in better understanding complex water issues and
provides options for improved use and management of the
resources.”
vWith the formation of this newest conservation district, the
total number of municipalities participating in the program has
risen to 148, almost a 90 per cent increase. The conservation
district program now covers 85 per cent of municipal Manitoba.
Overall, Manitoba Water Stewardship funding for the program has
increased by more than 100 per cent to $5.3 million since 1999.
Information on the role of conservation districts is available at
www.gov.mb.ca/waterstewardship
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