News Release

BATHURST (GNB) – The provincial government is supporting the economy in the Bathurst region by contributing $290,000 from the Environmental Trust Fund for 10 projects.

“The fund encourages excellent environmental initiatives that help build a better New Brunswick and benefit our province’s air, land and water resources,” said Justice and Public Safety Minister Denis Landry. “With these investments we are also helping to grow the green economy and create jobs.”

Landry spoke on behalf of Environment and Local Government Minister Serge Rousselle.

The announcement was hosted by the Daly Point Nature Reserve, who received $24,000 to increase environmental awareness.

“We are pleased to showcase our facility and highlight the many ways we are raising awareness of environmental protection through this funding,” said Janet Doucet, co-ordinator at the reserve.

The following organizations will also receive funding:

• the City of Bathurst will receive $73,000 for two projects: $33,000 to undertake adaptation planning for inland flood risk; and $40,000 to support restoration efforts at Youghall Beach;

• Regional Service Commission 3 will receive $68,000 for three projects: $30,000 to raise public awareness of environmentally responsible waste management; $30,000 for targeted awareness of institutional, commercial and industrial responsible waste management; and $8,000 to deliver an eco-healthy lunch box program, which teaches school-aged children how to reduce waste in their lunch box;

• Regional Service Commission 4 will receive $40,000 to deliver an education campaign for domestic waste management;

• the Nepisiguit Trail Reserve Commission will receive $35,000 to maintain the Nepisiguit Mi’gmaq Trail;

• the Nipisiguit Salmon Association will receive $12,000 to enhance and assess the salmon population; and

• Bathurst Sustainable Development will receive $38,000 to undertake public outreach as they develop their Climate Change Action Plan.

“I am particularly pleased to see funding going towards programs in our schools,” said Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Brian Kenny. “Learning about protecting the environment is an important part of preparing our youth for a more sustainable future.”

The Environmental Trust Fund provides assistance to community groups, organizations, municipalities and institutions for projects that produce tangible, measurable benefits to the environment.

This year, a total of $8 million dollars was invested in more than 200 projects under the fund.

More information, including the list of approved projects and initiatives, is available online.