“Community-based watershed planning has been very successful engaging residents and landowners in the restoration and protection of local streams,” said Minister Brown. “Government is very pleased to contribute to strengthening the Prince Edward Island Watershed Alliance which will further strengthen local watershed groups,” said Minister Brown.

The department is funding a resource person to work with the Watershed Alliance for one year to guide the implementation of its recently developed watershed strategy. The employee will also help research new funding sources, new management practices, and build relationships with governments and other organizations.

“The Watershed Alliance is very pleased that government is funding a staff person from the department to help implement our watershed strategy, and assist with a number of projects that we have targeted to improve the services we offer to watershed groups across the Island,” said Fred Cheverie, vice-chair of the Prince Edward Island Watershed Alliance.

Increased support and funding to community watershed groups was recommended by the Environmental Advisory Council after public consultations in 2007. Since that time, government has significantly increased funding to watershed groups, providing $850,000 in 2010.

“I would like to recognize and thank all the community volunteers for their hard work and commitment to restoring and protecting the quality of water on Prince Edward Island,” said the Minister. “Community watershed groups play a key role improving water quality on Prince Edward Island. Our strong partnership with watershed groups will help protect the environment for today and for future generations.”