Bill expected to make Manitoba a leader in wetland protection

BRANDON, MB, Nov. 30, 2017 /CNW/ - Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) congratulates the government on introducing the Sustainable Watersheds Act in the legislature today, a law that is expected to make Manitoba a leader in conservation.

Once passed, the new law -- combined with the Climate and Green Plan and watershed-based planning ? is expected to play an important part in environmental protection in this province.

"Passage of this bill would be a win for all Manitobans," says Scott Stephens, DUC Director of Regional Operations for the Prairies. "Wetlands reduce flooding, improve water quality and enhance biodiversity throughout Manitoba."

DUC is pleased that the province values the importance of wetlands and is moving forward with increased protection for seasonal, semi-permanent and permanent wetlands.

Research shows that up to 70 per cent of wetlands in Manitoba's farmlands have been lost or degraded. Within the last four to six decades, more than 100,000 hectares (an area more than twice the size of Winnipeg) were lost in southwestern Manitoba alone. The province continues to lose an average of 3.6 hectares (nine acres), or 4.5 CFL football fields, per day.

We gladly worked with the government as it developed this timely legislation, and look forward to working with government and other stakeholders as it's put into effect.

Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) is the leader in wetland conservation. A registered charity, DUC partners with government, industry, non-profit organizations and landowners to conserve wetlands that are critical to waterfowl, wildlife and the environment. www.ducks.ca  

SOURCE DUCKS UNLIMITED CANADA