News & Events!

May 27, 2010

PROVINCE ADVISES MOOSE POPULATIONS THREATENED IN SEVERAL AREAS OF MANITOBA
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Moose Hunting Seasons Cancelled in Impacted Areas Until Numbers Stabilize

Manitoba Conservation advises it has cancelled moose hunting seasons in several areas of the province following recent aerial survey results showing a substantial decline in moose populations.

There has been a 58 per cent decline in the moose population around the Duck Mountain area since 1993, the area of highest demand for moose hunting in the province. These include Game Hunting Areas (GHAs) 18, 18A, 18B and 18C.

The cancellation of hunting in GHAs 18, 18A, 18B and 18C will result in a delay of the big game draw. Results of the draw will be available after July 5. Hunters who have applied for hunting opportunities in the cancelled GHAs will be notified directly of their options to reapply for other hunting season choices.

A recent survey also shows a 50 per cent decline since 2006 and a 65 per cent decline since 2000 in Game Hunting Area 26, from Lake Winnipeg to the Ontario border between the Winnipeg and Wanipigow rivers including the Nopiming Provincial Park.

The ban on licensed moose hunting in these areas will remain in place until the populations have stabilized and numbers allow for the resumption of licensed hunting.

If moose populations decline too much there is a risk the population may not recover or the recovery period will be extended over many years. For those areas showing significant, rapid decline in moose numbers, the province has cancelled hunting seasons effective this fall to stop further declines.

The survey results confirm the concerns about the state of local moose populations raised by First Nation communities, licensed hunters and others. The province will work co-operatively with all concerned parties on a comprehensive management plan. This will include sharing the survey information and consulting with First Nations and other rights-based harvesters, hunter organizations, the forest industry and other interested groups.

Some of the topics to be addressed in the plan are the management of motorized access; forestry operations; the impacts of hunting, predation, disease and other factors such as forest fires.

The third area surveyed this year was the Porcupine Mountains and the results show the moose population there has remained stable since 1997.



May 13, 2010

PROVINCIAL PARK CAMPING SEASON OPENS TOMORROW
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Special Year as Manitoba Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Provincial Parks Act: Blaikie

Most provincial campgrounds open tomorrow, May 14 and the provincial park entry fee will be waived once again this summer, Conservation Minister Bill Blaikie has announced.

"The province has improved and expanded campsites for Manitobans, visitors and especially people making Manitoba a part of their homecoming this year," said Blaikie. "This is a special year for the province as Manitoba celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Provincial Parks Act."

May 20 to 24 will be a liquor-free long weekend for provincial campgrounds. Private cottages and commercial operations within provincial parks will not be affected by the ban.

Manitoba's Parks Reservation Service set a record for first-day bookings of individual campsites this year, handling 13,641 bookings for the 2010 camping season, an increase of about 20 per cent over last year's opening day. The province continues to expand campgrounds offered through the Parks Reservation Service and this year, Bird Lake Campground in Nopiming Provincial Park has been added.

Visitors to provincial parks and campgrounds will find new and improved facilities to make their stay more enjoyable including a shower building and resurfaced bike trails at Birds Hill, a washroom building at Grand Beach, a washroom and shower building at Nutimik Lake, a campground expansion offering more electrical and new electrical/water sites at Wellman Lake, a campground expansion offering full-service sites at Rivers, washroom and shower buildings at Wellman and Childs lakes, and a new playground at Asessippi Provincial Park.

Additional park improvements include:

· waste-water treatment facility improvements at West Hawk and Grindstone, and

· water-treatment plants for Watchhorn and Paint Lake provincial parks.

Detailed information on campgrounds is available at www.manitobaparks.com, 1-800-214-6497 (toll-free) or 945-6784 in Winnipeg.



May 13, 2010

2010 PROVINCIAL ANGLING SEASON BEGINS THIS MONTH
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Family Fishing Weekend Features Free Fishing

Manitobans and visitors will be able to take advantage of incredible opportunities to land walleye, northern pike, channel catfish, goldeye, white bass, lake trout and yellow perch as the angling season opens this month, Water Stewardship Minster Christine Melnick said today.

Fishing in southern division waters starts May 15, while opening day for the general angling season in the northwest and north-central divisions is May 22.

"Our licence fees will continue to support protection of the fisheries resource and I am pleased to announce this year, the weekend of June 12 and 13 is being designated as Family Fishing Weekend and features free fishing for all," said Melnick.

Licence fees for the 2010 angling season are unchanged from 2009:

· resident, conservation licence – $13.94;

· resident, regular licence – $19.83;

· Canadian resident, conservation licence – $22.77;

· Canadian resident, regular licence – $42.40;

· non-resident, conservation licence – $32.59;

· non-resident, regular licence – $57.12; and

· senior resident, conservation licence – free.

Licence fees include GST.

Licences are available at hundreds of businesses throughout the province and Manitoba Conservation offices. Recreational fishing includes angling, spear fishing, bow fishing, dip netting, seining and minnow trapping.

Other upcoming angling-related events include:

· The Manitoba Recreational Fishing League, offered by the Manitoba Wildlife Federation (MWF), Recreation Connections and Berkley Canada. Information is available by calling
204-633-5967 or at www.mwf.mb.ca/league.

· The Winnipeg Fish Festival, July 10, offered by the MWF, City Cats Guiding Service, City of Winnipeg Community Services Department and Manitoba Water Stewardship Fisheries Branch. For more information, call 204-945-6640.

· National Fishing Week, July 3 to 11. For more information visit www.nationalfishingweek.com.

· Winnipeg Urban Fall Fishing Derby, Sept. 18, offered by City Cats and Winnipeg's Urban Angling Partnership. For more information, call 204-945-6640.

More details on recreational angling in Manitoba is available from Manitoba Water Stewardship fisheries offices or online at www.manitobafisheries.com.


May 12, 2010

PROVINCE CELEBRATES TREATIES
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Premier Signs Proclamation Acknowledging Treaties in Manitoba

A proclamation declaring May 12 as Treaty Day at the Manitoba legislative assembly was signed today by Premier Greg Selinger who said the document honours the Treaties of Manitoba and is designed to encourage and promote understanding of the significance of Treaties in the province.

"This proclamation acknowledges the importance of the Treaties to all Manitobans," said Selinger. "Understanding the Treaty relationship between First Nations and the Crown is fundamental to living in Manitoba and Canada because the Treaties are living documents that inform us of where we've been and where we should be going."

Provincial representatives welcomed First Nations Chiefs, the Treaty Relations Commission of Manitoba, the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs and Indian and Northern Affairs Canada to the Manitoba Legislative Chamber to recognize together the significance of Treaties with the proclamation, exchange gifts and make presentations, including a Treaty Advocacy Award to honour the late minister of Aboriginal and northern affairs Oscar Lathlin, and present a beaded table runner and mace pillow to the chamber.

"Treaties are an integral part of our history that define Canada's ongoing relationship with First Nations. We are proud to celebrate the Treaties and their importance with all Manitobans,"
said federal Indian Affairs and Northern Affairs Minister Chuck Strahl, interlocutor for Métis and non-status Indians.

"The Treaty Relations Commission of Manitoba envisions that Treaty Day at the Manitoba legislative assembly will help to revitalize and enhance the Treaty relationship," said Treaty Commissioner Dennis White Bird. "When Treaties were entered into between First Nations and the Crown they became fundamental building blocks to the rights currently held by First Nations and Manitobans. These rights are not only expressed in written form but also in the spirit and intent of the Treaties. The late minister Oscar Lathlin understood this and laboured hard to strengthen the Treaty relationship; it is our honour to recognize him for his life-long commitment to building a better future for all Treaty Manitobans."

"First Nation peoples in Manitoba have had a long history of Treaty-making. Treaties were made between various Nations for peace, friendship, non-interference and sharing of lands and resources," said Grand Chief Ron Evans of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs. "Our elders have told us that our treaties are sacred living documents which were entered into only after much thought, discussion and ceremony. When our forefathers signed the Treaties, they believed that our lands would provide home bases, which would provide sustenance, as they always had done - as long as the sun shines, the grass grows and the rivers flow. Our position has always been that our Treaty rights are to be protected and that the Treaties are the foundation of all of our initiatives, agreements and processes."

As part of the events for Treaty Day at the Manitoba legislative assembly, a sunrise ceremony was conducted in the morning on the legislative grounds, Treaty displays were showcased and a Treaty play was performed for visitors after the ceremonies in the Legislative Chamber.

In Manitoba, there are seven Treaties signed between Canada and First Nations: Treaty 1 (1871), Treaty 2 (1871), Treaty 3 (1873), Treaty 4 (1874), Treaty 5 (1875), adhesion to Treaty 5 (1909), Treaty 6 (1898) and Treaty 10 (1906).

April 25, 2010

MANITOBA WATER STEWARDSHIP
ENDS MORATORIUM ON DAUPHIN LAKE FISHERY

Manitoba Water Stewardship advises the closure and fishing restrictions on the Dauphin Lake tributaries put in place on April 14 were lifted at noon today.

The measures included a moratorium on all fishing of walleye on the Turtle, Valley and Vermilion rivers, along with a daily limit of six walleye on other major tributaries during the spawning season. Based on monitoring of the tributaries, Manitoba Water Stewardship has determined that spawning is now complete.

The department noted the conservation measures were in addition to existing measures including reductions in the commercial harvest of walleye from Lake Dauphin, reductions in the daily catch limit of walleye for anglers, the requirement that all spawning-sized walleye be released, and closure of all commercial and recreational fishing during the spring spawning season.

The department said that the provincial government remains committed to working with First Nation, Métis, and other commercial and recreational users of the fishery to ensure a sustainable fishery.



April 13, 2010

TEMPORARY CLOSURE ON WALLEYE FISHING TO PROTECT FISHERY ON DAUPHIN LAKE: MANITOBA WATER STEWARDSHIP

Manitoba Water Stewardship advises that conservation measures are being put in place to protect walleye populations in Dauphin Lake, similar to those instituted last spring.

The department said, this year, a temporary closure on all walleye fishing in three tributaries of Dauphin Lake, and limits on other tributaries during spawning season, will help restore the health of fish stocks for the future.

This temporary closure prohibits catching and retaining walleye on the Turtle, Valley and Vermilion rivers from April 14 at 12:01 a.m. to the completion of walleye spawning.

To ensure the closure does not shift unsustainable fishing harvest onto other Dauphin Lake tributaries, anyone exercising an Aboriginal or treaty right to fish for food will be restricted to a daily limit of six walleye caught by angling only (rod and reel) in total from all of the Wilson and Ochre rivers and Edwards, Crooked and Mink creeks during the temporary closure.

These steps are in addition to existing measures such as reductions in the commercial harvest of walleye from Dauphin Lake, reductions of the daily catch limit of walleye for recreational anglers, requirements that recreational anglers release all spawning-sized walleye and the closure of all commercial and recreational fishing during the spring spawning season.

The Manitoba Water Stewardship Fisheries Branch estimates that conservation measures put in place last spring saved about 8,000 pounds of walleye or about 4,000 spawning fish. Over the winter, 14 First Nations, 24 Métis communities, the Manitoba Métis Federation and 10 Northern Aboriginal communities were provided with details of the proposed conservation management plan and were invited to provide input.


April 6, 2010

RECORD NUMBER OF BOOKINGS COMPLETED ON OPENING DAY BY MANITOBA'S PARKS RESERVATION SERVICE
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Highest Bookings Ever, Locally Designed System Increasingly Popular with Manitobans: Blaikie

Manitoba's Parks Reservation Service set a record for first-day bookings of individual campsites yesterday, handling 13,641 bookings for the 2010 camping season, an increase of about 20 per cent over last year's opening day, Conservation Minister Bill Blaikie said today.

"This made-in-Manitoba system went into service four years ago and provides people with an efficient web-based booking service to allow people to enjoy our beautiful parks," said Blaikie.
"This is a special year as it marks the 50th anniversary of the first parks act and the millions of people who have enjoyed our parks over the years."

In 2006, the first year of the new system, 47,870 bookings were made in total. Last year, 62,044 bookings in total were made.

So far this season, 15,974 provincial park cabins, yurts, group-use areas and campsites have been booked. Cabin, yurt and group-use reservations have been available since the first Monday in February.

Most campgrounds open May 14 in Manitoba and again this year there will be no park entry fees and no park vehicle permits required. The May long weekend, May 21 to 24, will be a liquor-free weekend again.

Visitors to provincial parks and campgrounds will continue to see more improvements to facilities to make their stay more enjoyable
including:
· Birds Hill – shower building;
· Grand Beach – washroom building;
· Grindstone – lagoon upgrade and road upgrade;
· West Hawk – lagoon upgrade;
· Nutimik Lake – washroom and shower building;
· Wellman Lake – campground expansion and washroom and shower buildings at Wellman and Childs lakes; and
· Asessippi Provincial Park – new playground.

For online reservations, go to www.manitobaparks.com and follow the links to reservations. Reservations may also be made over the phone by calling toll-free 1-888-4U2-CAMP (1-888-482-2267), or in Winnipeg at 948-3333.

March 30, 2010

PROVINCE ANNOUNCES MAJOR INVESTMENT IN ALL-SEASON ROAD
TO CONNECT EAST SIDE COMMUNITIES
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$72.5 Million in Budget 2010
Brings Manitoba's Total Investment to $93 Million: Selinger

Manitoba is one step closer to replacing winter roads with permanent all-season connections, thanks to a $72.5-million investment announced today by Premier Greg Selinger and Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Minister Eric Robinson, minister responsible for the East Side Road Authority (ESRA).

"Climate change is contributing to a shorter winter road season on average, with southern sections of our winter road network particularly vulnerable as we witnessed this year," said Selinger. "Today, we are moving forward on a permanent solution with this significant investment in a project that will create employment, training and economic development opportunities for local people while bringing down the cost of living and providing better access to essential services."

The new investment will go toward the ongoing work of the Manitoba Floodway and East Side Road Authority (MFESRA), whose mandate was expanded in 2009 from managing the expansion of the Red River Floodway to include the construction and maintenance of an all-season road on the east side of Lake Winnipeg as part of the East Side Transportation Initiative.

The East Side Transportation Initiative includes construction of a 160-kilometre, all-season road from PR 304 near Manigotagan to Bloodvein First Nation and through to Berens River First Nation. The initiative also includes a study to examine potential transportation infrastructure improvements for the remainder of the region, expected to be complete by the end of 2010.

"In a little over one year, a significant amount of work has been undertaken on the all-season road project," said Ernie Gilroy, CEO of the MFESRA. "This includes filing an environmental impact assessment for the PR 304 to Berens River all-season road project, proceeding with the large area transportation network study and signing community benefits agreements with east-side communities. Today's announcement will help to ensure that, pending environmental approval, we are in a position to begin construction later this year."

In addition to securing the necessary environmental approvals, much of the ESRA's work has focused on establishing community benefits agreements (CBAs) with east side communities to ensure that jobs, training, and economic benefits are maximized for local residents. To date, ESRA has signed CBAs with Berens River, Bloodvein, Red Sucker Lake, St. Theresa Point and Wasagamack First Nations. Discussions are ongoing with other communities, said Gilroy.

"The people of the east side are already benefiting from what will be one of the largest infrastructure projects in Manitoba's history," said Robinson. "An all-weather road represents one of our best single opportunities to improve life on the east side by reducing transportation costs for food, goods and people, improving access to vital services such as health care, and fostering greater economic development and tourism opportunities for local people."

Building permanent road connections to east-side communities will also fulfil a number of key recommendations of the 2004 report Promises to Keep produced as part of the Wabanong Nakaygum Okimawin east side planning initiative, said Robinson. The report contains a number of community recommendations that were put forward to the government as a result of east side community meetings held in 2004. The recommendations range from the protection of traditional lands to improved transportation, sustainable economic development, and increased employment and training opportunities.

Provincial environmental approvals are expected to be complete by the end of 2010. Discussions with the Government of Canada are also underway regarding federal environmental licensing and the prospect of federal funding for the project, said Robinson.

March 25, 2010

MANITOBA MARKS 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF PROVINCIAL PARKS
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Manitobans Encouraged to Celebrate Their Parks: Blaikie

On March 26, 1960, Manitoba's first Provincial Parks Act was passed in the Manitoba legislature and 50 years later Manitobans and visitors have access to great outdoor experiences in a variety of provincial parks, Conservation Minister Bill Blaikie said today in marking the 50th anniversary of organized provincial parks.

"Manitoba's provincial parks provide countless opportunities to get outside and be active and this anniversary year gives Manitobans another reason to celebrate their parks," said Blaikie. "Diversity provides park users with a variety of outdoor experiences including day trips to the beach, modern fully serviced campgrounds and remote experiences."

To mark this occasion, Manitobans and visitors are asked to share their favourite park memories by submitting photos and short stories to a 50th anniversary contest. There will also be a number of special 50th anniversary interpretive events across the province. Details on events and contests will be available at the link to the 50th anniversary web page at www.manitobaparks.com.
Again this year, entry to provincial parks is free all year long and no park vehicle pass is required.

"Manitoba's parks feature spectacular natural environments, unique cultural sites, sandy beaches and clear waters," said Blaikie. "Our parks provide a variety of experiences in life's great outdoors."

The parks provide recreational and educational opportunities and experiences in a natural setting such as camping, boating and hiking. Reserving a campsite can be done electronically or by telephone through the state-of-the-art Parks Reservation System.

The provincial park system captures Manitoba's geographical diversity as well from Caribou River Provincial Park along the Nunavut Territory boundary near Hudson Bay south to Turtle Mountain and Pembina Valley Provincial Parks along the U.S.
border. There are Duck Mountain and Grass River Parks to the west and Whiteshell, Nopiming and Atikaki Parks to the east.
Parks also offer unique heritage sites such as the interpretive site depicting the fur-trading era at Captain Kennedy House at River Road Provincial Park, Métis heritage at St. Norbert Provincial Park and Pinawa Dam Provincial Park, which commemorates the first dam to produce year-round electricity in Manitoba.

In 1961, Grand Beach, Duck Mountain, Turtle Mountain, and Whiteshell were designated as Manitoba's first provincial parks. The province will mark the 50th anniversary of these parks in 2011 with a variety of special events.

"Manitobans have a strong attachment to parks with an estimated
4.8 million visits annually," said the minister. "Fifty years after the first Provincial Parks Act was passed, Manitoba has 81 provincial parks, which protect a variety of ecosystems and landscapes representative of Manitoba's special places. I encourage Manitobans and visitors to get out and explore all that Manitoba's parks have to offer."

More information on Manitoba's provincial parks is available at www.manitobaparks.com.

March 24, 2010

PIMACHIOWIN AKI WORLD HERITAGE FUND ACT INTRODUCED
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Province Would Commit $10 Million for Fund to Protect Pristine Boreal Environment: Blaikie

The province continues its commitment to protect more than 40,000 square kilometres of boreal forest on the east side of Lake Winnipeg with a $10-million fund which would be established through the proposed Pimachiowin Aki World Heritage Fund Act, Conservation Minister Bill Blaikie said today after introducing the legislation.

"The Pimachiowin Aki Corporation continues its hard work towards a UNESCO World Heritage Site nomination," said Blaikie." The act includes a proposed fund to generate income to be used for programs and initiatives that protect, promote and celebrate the natural and cultural features of the area and support the operation of a world heritage site through fundraising activities."

Part of the revenue earned from investment will be dedicated to providing direct benefits to First Nation communities by funding community-driven projects that are related to a world heritage site. The legislation would also allow the province to enter into an agreement with Pimachiowin Aki Corporation and the Winnipeg Foundation to manage and administer the fund.

The Pimachiowin Aki Corporation is led by the Poplar River, Little Grand Rapids, Pauingassi, Bloodvein River and Pikangikum, Ont., First Nations. Manitoba Conservation and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources are also represented on the corporation's board. The UNESCO nomination requires community consultations, research, mapping and community-based land-use planning.

March 18, 2010

PROGRESS WELL UNDERWAY TO IMPLEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS OF LAKE WINNIPEG STEWARDSHIP BOARD: MELNICK
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Reports by Lake Winnipeg, Lake Manitoba Stewardship Boards Released

Two years after the release of the Lake Winnipeg Stewardship Board's final report containing 135 recommendations for action, the board has evaluated the progress made by the Government of Manitoba in implementing the recommendations, Water Stewardship Minister Christine Melnick said today, as she released the board's progress report.

"The board has recognized the tremendous challenge associated with implementing these 135 recommendations and has acknowledged the work of the province in making progress towards reducing nutrient loading," said Melnick.

The progress report said the province has demonstrated good progress on the majority of the 135 recommendations including:
· recognizing the priority on reducing nutrients from waste-water effluents;
· passing first-in-Canada legislation to virtually eliminate the phosphorus content in household automatic dishwasher detergent and to eliminate the application of fertilizers in buffer zones along waterways;
· providing ongoing investment to research in and around Lake Winnipeg including support for the Lake Winnipeg Research Consortium and the research ship Namao;
· launching a public education campaign in conjunction with the south basin reeves and mayors promoting lake-friendly products that minimize impact to Lake Winnipeg;
· implementing stronger measures and additional resources for licensing drainage projects and improving drain maintenance across the province; and
· initiating work to restore and protect critical wetlands including Delta and Netley marshes.

"Clearly the Lake Winnipeg Stewardship Board's recommendations on reducing nutrient loading to Lake Winnipeg did not sit on the shelf. Showing strong leadership, the Manitoba government moved quickly to initiate implementation of most of the recommendations and further challenged the board to monitor progress, an indication that the deteriorating state of Lake Winnipeg is a very serious matter," said Lake Winnipeg Stewardship Board chair William Barlow. "No single entity, whether a municipal, provincial, or federal, or a non government organization can accomplish what needs to be done on its own. There continues to be a real need to co-ordinate and implement concrete action on the landscape."

The board's 135 recommendations to address the health of the lake were contained in its last report to the province, released in February 2007. While not all recommendations in the board's report were directed at the Province of Manitoba, the progress report rated the province based in part on its progress towards influencing other jurisdictions and organizations to take action.

"The Lake Winnipeg Stewardship Board's report has provided a path forward to improve the health of the lake," Melnick said. "Action is underway and will continue as we work to address a problem that was decades in the making. I have asked Mr. Barlow to work with stakeholders to ensure implementation continues with a focus on priority areas."

Melnick also recognized the work of the Lake Manitoba Stewardship Board and released its annual report for 2009.

"I want to thank Dr. Gordon Goldsborough, chair of the Lake Manitoba Stewardship and the rest of the board for their hard work gathering information on the lake and its watershed," she said. "I have asked the board to focus their efforts over the next year on a review of Manitoba Water Stewardship's draft fisheries management plan for Lake Manitoba, which is currently under development, and to provide advice to me on the draft plan."

The Lake Winnipeg Stewardship Board's report on progress and the Lake Manitoba Stewardship Board's annual report can be found on Manitoba Water Stewardship website at www.gov.mb.ca/waterstewardship/reports/index.html.

March 16, 2010

PROVINCE ADVISES CAUTION AROUND RIVERS, LAKES, STREAMS
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Fluctuating Temperatures Will Weaken Ice

Manitoba Water Stewardship and Manitoba Conservation recommend people stay off rivers and other bodies of water as the spring melt continues.

The recent warm weather has increased the risk of weak ice. Individuals should check on ice conditions and act responsibly. Rivers are on the rise and there are weak spots developing. Some regions of the province may still have ice thick enough to support human activities.

All ice-fishing shelters should now be off the Red River from Lockport to Selkirk.

Manitoba Conservation is encouraging ice fishers in The Pas and surrounding area to remove shelters from the Saskatchewan River well ahead of the April 15 deadline. Unseasonably warm weather conditions may cause ice to substantially deteriorate before April 15 and make shelter removal difficult and possibly dangerous.

Fishers with shelters on lakes throughout the area are also encouraged to monitor the weather and ice conditions to allow for safe removal.

A return of cold weather for a few days will slow how fast the ice is softening but overall unstable ice conditions will remain.

March 11, 2010

EARLY REMOVAL OF ICE FISHING SHELTERS ENCOURAGED IN NORTHERN MANITOBA
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Warmer Weather Affect Ice Conditions on Saskatchewan River near The Pas

Manitoba Conservation is encouraging ice fishers in The Pas and surrounding area to remove shelters from the Saskatchewan River well ahead of the April 15 deadline.

Unseasonably warm weather conditions may cause ice to substantially deteriorate prior to April 15 and make shelter removal difficult and possibly dangerous.

Fishers with shelters on lakes throughout the area are also encouraged to monitor the weather and ice conditions to allow for safe removal.

March 10, 2010

PROVINCE PREPARES PARKS FOR 2010 SEASON
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Provincial Park Camping Fees Remain Among Lowest in Canada: Blaikie

Improved services, low camping fees and free provincial park entry await visitors to Manitoba's provincial parks this summer, Conservation Minister Bill Blaikie announced today.

"Manitoba's parks feature camping rates, including those for yurts and cabins, that continue to be some of the lowest in the country," said Blaikie. "We are making improvements every year to enhance the enjoyment of Manitoba's provincial parks and campgrounds for millions of visitors."

Improvements to park infrastructure and facilities include:
. 20 new full-service campsites at Rivers Provincial Park campground;
. 65 new campsites, some with electrical connections and others with water and electricity, at Wellman Lake campground in Duck Mountain Provincial Park;
. new shower facilities at Birds Hill, Childs Lake, Nutimik Lake and Wellman Lake; and
. resurfaced bike trails at Birds Hill Provincial Park.

To support ongoing campground improvements and introduce new and expanded services, moderate fee increases will be introduced this camping season:
. nightly camping fees, which vary based on services and the type of site, will increase to $9.45 to $24.15 from the previous range of $8.40 to $22.05;
. seasonal rates will increase to $330.75 to $925.58 from the previous rates of $299.25 to $835.28, based on services and the type of site;
. permanent trailer-village camping programs will now range from $857.85 to $1,038.45, up from $767.55 to $948.15, based on services and the type of site;
. family vacation cabins will increase to $31.05 to 78.44 from $29.57 to $74.71, depending on location and services;
. yurts will increase to $47.04 from $44.80;
. premium new Hecla family vacation cabins built in 2008 and 2009 will be $61.82 per night; and
. coin-operated showers will have a standardized fee of $1 per three minutes of use.

In addition:
. cottage and commercial administrative fees associated with the occupation of leased land in provincial parks will increase to $40 from $30;
. a site-plan permit fee of $50 is being introduced when a permit is issued to construct new or alter existing buildings or developments on vacation home, commercial or special-consideration organization lots in provincial parks;
. a sewage tipping fee of $10 per truck load for commercial sewage haulers dumping in waste water facilities in provincial parks will be implemented with the introduction of control gates and pass-card systems at provincial park sewage lagoons, which are expected to be operating at most locations within three years.

The minister also noted that 2009 was another record year for the Parks Reservation System. A total of 62,043 reservations were booked through the made-in-Manitoba system last camping season.

Most campgrounds will open the weekend before May long weekend. Northern campgrounds, and those at Grand Beach, Lundar and St. Ambroise will open on the May long weekend.

The liquor-free camping experience will also return again for the May long weekend.

"Major improvements to park infrastructure and facilities are ongoing including water and waste-water systems, washrooms and showers, and campsites," said Blaikie. "We are committed to water conservation and sound waste-water management practices in our parks. All new and an increasing number of existing shower facilities will be coin operated to conserve water and reduce waste water."

The Parks Reservation Service will open for campsite reservations on April 5 at 7:30 a.m. Detailed information on campground opening dates and campground rules is available at
www.manitobaparks.com, 1-800-214-6497 (toll-free) or 945-6784 in Winnipeg.

March 8, 2010

MINISTER WELCOMES U.S. FEDERAL COURT RULING IN MANITOBA'S FAVOUR ON NORTHWEST AREA WATER SUPPLY PROJECT

The U.S. District Court has again ruled in favour of Manitoba in its case against the Northwest Area Water Supply (NAWS) project, Water Stewardship Minister Christine Melnick announced today.

Judge Rosemary Collyer, in her decision issued Friday, March 5, ordered the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation to take a "hard look" at the consequences of biota transfer into the Hudson Bay drainage basin and refused to lift her injunction on completion of the project.

"The Government of Manitoba is pleased with this ruling," said Melnick. "We look forward to working with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and with North Dakota as they now undertake the necessary work ordered by Judge Collyer."

On Oct. 22, 2002, Manitoba filed a legal challenge in U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C., arguing the NAWS project, one of the Garrison Diversion projects that would divert Missouri River water across the continental divide to the Hudson Bay basin, could cause severe and irreparable harm to Manitoba and had been improperly assessed.

In early 2005, Collyer ruled in Manitoba's favour and ordered the U.S. federal government and North Dakota to go back and do a proper assessment of the risks of transfer of harmful biota or invasive species. Since 2005, additional work was undertaken and in 2009, the U.S. federal government and North Dakota returned to the court and asked the injunction on further work be lifted so that the project could proceed. Manitoba and Missouri objected, saying the proper assessment still had not been done as Collyer originally ordered, and the project still placed Manitoba at considerable risk of harm and this harm had not been properly considered.

"While the future of the project is still uncertain, today's ruling will assist in achieving adequate measures to protect Manitoba's valuable water including Lake Winnipeg, the world's 10th largest freshwater lake, from the threat of harm posed by invasive species that could be transferred by the NAWS project,"
said Melnick.

Manitoba was joined in its lawsuit by the Canadian federal government, Minnesota, Missouri, the U.S. National Wildlife Federation, the Great Lake Environmental Law Centre, the Minnesota Conservation Federation and the South Dakota Wildlife Federation.

February 15, 2010

13th NORTH AMERICAN CARIBOU WORKSHOP
OCTOBER 25 - 28, 2010
The Fairmont, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

Mark your calendar and plan to attend!
This workshop provides a forum for people of various resource management backgrounds to exchange information regarding current issues and research in caribou conservation and how current scientific and traditional knowledge can be applied to sustainable management.
Here is a look at our preliminary workshop program. More details will follow over the next few months.
Monday, October 25, 2010
§ Arrival / Pre-workshop Seminars / Meetings
§ Registration / Evening Ice-Breaker
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
§ Plenary Session and Concurrent Sessions
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
§ Symposium 1 - How is knowledge being used in management - Barren-ground Caribou
§ Symposium 2 - How is knowledge being used in management - Woodland Caribou
§ Field Trip
Thursday, October 28, 2010
§ Concurrent Sessions, Poster Session and Wrap-up Plenary Session
§ Business Meeting
§ Banquet
Call for Pre-workshop Seminars and Concurrent Session Topics
This is an official open call for pre-workshop seminars and concurrent session topics. Please check our website for more information www.nacw2010.ca
Accommodations
The workshop is being held at The Fairmont Winnipeg. A block of rooms have been secured as part of the workshop. As well, a workshop rate has been established for delegates with a limited number of rooms at this rate. Room reservations must be made before September 20, 2010. For more information or to reserve your room, visit our website at www.nacw2010.ca

Registration opens March 2010.
We look forward to seeing you at NACW 2010.


February 12, 2010

MANITOBA'S WINTER ROAD SYSTEM NOW FULLY OPEN
FOR SHIPMENTS TO REMOTE AND NORTHERN COMMUNITIES

Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation advises the province's approximately 2,200-kilometres of winter roads are now open. The provincial winter road system allows large trucks and other vehicles to get needed goods from the south to remote communities in the north.

Each year, more than 2,500 shipments of needed supplies such as food and fuel are trucked to a large number of northern communities. The system also provides road access for area residents.

While recent colder temperatures allowed construction crews to make good progress in preparing the roads to be opened and created ice thick enough to support large trucks, some routes have weight restrictions for the time being.

Anyone using the system should be aware some sections may have to be closed for repairs on short notice, due to changing weather conditions or required maintenance.

The typical winter road season lasts eight to 12 weeks, ending in March. The system serves approximately 30,000 Manitobans in 23 communities in areas where there are no permanent roads.

Opening of the system is dependent on the weather as is closing when ice begins to melt.

Since 2001, more than 25 per cent or about 600 km of the system has been moved from lakes, rivers and creeks onto land to further improve safety, reduce environmental risks and promote sustainability.

Most winter road projects are cost shared with the federal government.

The latest information on road conditions or related safety information is available at anytime at www.manitoba.ca or at 1-877-MBRoads



2009 Annual AGM and Convention

The Manitoba Lodges and Outfitters Association (MLOA) are holding their annual general meeting and convention at the Canad Inn Polo Park in Winnipeg from December 6th to 8th, 2009.

The annual general meeting brings together licensed operators from across the province, industry partners, government departments and related businesses to address common industry issues and opportunities and to discuss further initiatives to ensure of sustainability and growth within the industry.

The convention starts on Sunday evening with the President’s reception and will follow with two days of meetings, annual banquet and fundraiser and an industry trade show.

For more information, please contact Ryan Suffron at the MLOA office at 204-772 –1912 or at mloa@mloa.com.

September 22, 2009

SEPT. 26 PROCLAIMED AS FIRST PROVINCIAL HUNTING DAY
- - -
Saturday Event at Whittier Park to Celebrate Hunting As Season is
Underway in Manitoba: Struthers


The province has proclaimed the fourth Saturday in September as
Provincial Hunting Day in Manitoba to celebrate the role hunting
plays in wildlife management and conservation, Conservation
Minister Stan Struthers announced today.

Provincial Hunting Day will feature a Hunting Appreciation Day at
Whittier Park on Saturday.

"Hunting is a vital part of our rich natural heritage as
Manitobans and our government is committed to ensuring this
heritage continues to be recognized and embraced," said
Struthers. "Hunting is the foundation of wildlife management and
ensures sustainable populations of game for the benefit of future
generations. It is important to inform all Manitobans about the
role hunting plays in wildlife management and conservation, as
well as its cultural significance to Manitoba's Aboriginal
people."

"Hunting is part of a healthy lifestyle for thousands of urban
and rural families, and we are extremely pleased that the
province has formally recognized the valuable role hunters and
hunting play in wildlife management and conservation of wildlife
and wildlife habitat," said Dale Garnham, president of the
Manitoba Wildlife Federation. "Hunting Appreciation Day is an
excellent opportunity for the public to learn more about our
natural resources and Manitoba's hunting heritage."

Hunting Appreciation Day celebrates the proclamation of
Provincial Hunting Day and is organized by the Manitoba Wildlife
Federation with representatives from Manitoba Conservation, Ducks
Unlimited, the Manitoba Lodge and Outfitters Association, the
Delta Waterfowl Foundation and the Manitoba Métis Federation.

Manitobans can learn about wildlife, conservation, hunting and
the great outdoors through a variety of activities at the event
at Whittier Park on Saturday. Activities include seeing
retriever dogs in action, learning about wildlife management,
participating in wildlife identification exercises, meeting
wildlife photographers and artists, and learning how to prepare,
cook and enjoy wild game.

In the field, the province reports the fall archery seasons for
white-tailed deer, non-draw moose, non-draw caribou and draw elk
are underway in specific game hunting areas (GHA). The fall
black bear season is open until Oct. 11.

Changes for the 2009 hunting seasons include:

- Simplifying requirements for youth hunting mentors who
will require one valid hunting licence or a hunter education
certificate before accompanying youth in the field.

- Allowing Sunday hunting provincewide for big game
species which will significantly increase opportunities for
students and people unable to take time off work during the week.

- Limiting the winter moose season in GHA 21 to 50
licences with 25 tags. GHAs 13, 13A, 18 to 18C, 19, 19A, 19B,
22, 24, 27, 28, 29, 29A, 30 and 31A will not have second deer
seasons in 2009.

Youth are encouraged to join a licensed adult hunters using one
of the special low-cost licences that are available for youth
hunters. Youth hunters between the ages of 12 and 17 who have
successfully completed the Manitoba Hunter Education Course or a
similar course from another province are eligible to participate
using any of the following options:

- shared bag limits or separate bag limits,

- special youth hunting licences or mentored hunting.

The Hunter Education program is operated by the Manitoba Wildlife
Federation and is now available online at
www.hunterexam.com/canada/manitoba.

Hunters in several western Manitoba game hunting areas are
required to submit biological samples (head, upper neck and
lungs) to monitor the health of western elk and deer
populations. Successful elk or deer hunters in game hunting areas
5, 6, 6A, 11, 12, 13, 13A, 18, 18A, 18B, 18C, part of 22 (west of
PTH 83), 23 and 23A must submit the required samples to the
designated wildlife biological stations and other drop-off points
listed on the department web site.

Further information on season dates and bag limits is available
in the 2009 Manitoba Hunting Guide, licence vendors, all Manitoba
Conservation offices or at www.gov.mb.ca/conservation.


September 10, 2009

First Annual Manitoba Hunting Appreciation Day Set for September 26th

Saturday September 26th will mark a milestone recognizing the importance of hunting in Manitoba. The Manitoba Wildlife Federation together with Ducks Unlimited Canada, Delta Waterfowl, Manitoba Lodges & Outfitters Association, Manitoba Metis Federation and Manitoba Conservation will be hosting Manitoba’s first annual Hunting Appreciation Day.

This outdoor festival to be held at Winnipeg’s Whittier Park from 10 am to 4 pm, September 26th will celebrate the skills, history and heritage of hunting in Manitoba as well as the many contributions hunters make to habitat conservation, game management, and to the economy of the province.

“We want to show the public how important hunting is, not only to conservation, but as part of a healthy lifestyle for the entire family” said Dale Garnham, President of the Manitoba Wildlife Federation. “We want to attract city folks, new Canadians, the non-hunting public, those who are interested in becoming hunters, and of course hunters, and we have a line-up of exciting attractions that should do just that,” he added.

The event will be free, along with free parking and the first 500 entrants will receive a voucher for a complimentary lunch on site. Each family will receive a passport to visit the many display booths with coupons and chances to win special door prizes.

Activities under canvas and in the open air will include exhibitions of retriever dogs in action, archery and black powder demonstrations, wildlife calling, a healthy cooking exhibit with favourite recipes and samples, how to do wildlife photography, decoy carving and art, learning to make nest boxes, wildlife calls and feeders, and much more. The main stage will feature traditional Metis musicians and other special presentations. Kids and adults alike can try their hand at the virtual hunting simulator or test their skills at the archery and air rifle shooting ranges.

Other major sponsors for the event include Cabela’s, Danny’s Whole Hog, Travel Manitoba, Sterling Collision and Glass, Central Display Ltd., MWF Habitat Foundation, Manitoba Natural Resource Officers Association and the National Wild Turkey Federation. See the attached poster for further details.

For more information please call the Manitoba Wildlife Federation in Winnipeg at 204-633-5967.


September 2, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dallas, Texas added to All-Canada Show circuit
Show to visit fourth largest market in U.S. in 2010

The All-Canada Show is adding an 11th show for 2010…Dallas, Texas.
Dallas is a huge market and home to anglers and hunters with a long tradition of fishing and hunting in Canada. The city’s slogan is Live Large. Think Big. The very same description could be used to describe fishing and hunting in Canada. This will be a match made in Heaven.
The final show on the 2010 circuit, Dallas will be held Feb 19-21, directly after Omaha, Nebraska. The famous Southfork Ranch Event and Conference Center (from the TV show Dallas) in Parker, TX will host the event.
The market area encompasses Dallas-Fort Worth and Arlington and boasts a population of over 6 million people making it the fourth largest market in the U.S. behind only New York, Los Angeles and Chicago. In 2008 Dallas was the fastest growing area in the entire U.S.
Dallas is a very affluent area and is a hub for petroleum, cotton, agri-business and home of Fortune 100 companies AT&T, Exxon, Texas Instruments, JC Penny and Electrical Data Systems, plus numerous aviation companies.
Booth space is limited; lodges and outfitters interested in exhibiting in this exciting new market should contact Rodney Schlafer at the All-Canada Show for more details. rod@allcanada.com or call him at: 800-325-6290 ext 112.


August 27, 2009

PREMIER DOER TO PASS BATON
AFTER 10 YEARS OF LEADERSHIP

Premier Gary Doer today announced he will resign this fall after a replacement is chosen. Following 10 years at the helm of the provincial government, Doer said the time is right for renewal.

"I look back with pride at all the hard work this team has done on behalf of all Manitobans, but there is still more work to be done to ensure this province is everything it can be," Doer said. "As we mark the 10-year anniversary of our government, this is the appropriate time to pass the baton to a new leader who can carry on that important work."

Doer was first elected to the legislative assembly in 1986 on behalf of the people of the constituency of Concordia. As a member of Howard Pawley's government, he served as minister of urban affairs.

Doer became leader of the New Democratic Party in the middle of the 1988 provincial election. Following the 1990 election, he became leader of the official opposition. In 1999, he led his party to government and became the premier. In total, he led his party to three consecutive majorities.

"I am grateful to the people of Manitoba for giving me the chance to serve them," Doer said. "No one should doubt that it is a great honour to sit in the legislature and work on behalf of the citizens of this province."

Doer led a government with a mandate to invest in health care, education, justice and the economy.

"There are new hospitals, more doctors and nurses, one of the healthiest economies in Canada, a strong justice system and an education system that meets the needs of more students than ever before," said Doer. "These are accomplishments of the entire government, not any one person. Any government must renew itself to maintain the ability to work on behalf of the people who elected it. I look forward to working with out team as a new leader is chosen in the coming months."


August 21, 2009

HIGH WATER ADVISORY FOR CHURCHILL RIVER IN MANITOBA

Manitoba Water Stewardship's Hydrologic Forecast Centre has issued a high water advisory for the Churchill River from Pukatawagan to Leaf Rapids. High levels are flooding docks and smaller roads.

Levels of the Churchill River have been rising steadily for the past few months as a result of high run off resulting from significant rain in Saskatchewan. Pukatawagan Lake, east of the Manitoba-Saskatchewan boundary, has risen 0.98 metres (3.2 feet) since July 20. It is now 2.1 m (seven ft.) above its normal August level. Granville Lake has also risen 0.98 m (3.2 ft.) since July 20 and continues to rise.

The Churchill River has reached a crest at Sandy Bay in eastern Saskatchewan and little further rise is expected at Pukatawagan Lake, based on favourable weather from now on. Levels at Granville Lake and Leaf Rapids are expected to rise an additional 0.6 to 0.9 m (two to three ft.) before crests occur in early September.

Crests for this event are expected to be about one m (3.3 ft.) lower than those of the record flood in the autumn of 2005, however anyone using the river is advised to take precautions to protect against rising water levels as best possible.

High outflows from Reindeer Lake in Saskatchewan are producing about half of the river discharge at the Manitoba-Saskatchewan boundary. It is anticipated these outflows will soon be reduced and levels in Manitoba will begin to decline during September.

Levels of Southern Indian Lake are expected to remain in the desirable range due to proactive operations of the Missi Dam by Manitoba Hydro. Outflows at the dam have been much above average this summer and will remain high through the autumn. However, no serious difficulties have been reported on the lower Churchill River between Northern Indian Lake and Hudson Bay.

The latest information on water advisories can be found at www.gov.mb.ca/waterstewardship/water_info/index.html.



August 19, 2009

HIGH WATER ADVISORY ISSUED
FOR WHITESHELL AND NOPIMING PROVINCIAL PARKS

Manitoba Water Stewardship's Hydrologic Forecast Centre advises that rainfall of 75 to 90 millimetres (three to 3.5 inches) in eastern Manitoba last weekend has resulted in unusually-high lake levels in Whiteshell and Nopiming provincial parks.

Most lakes in Whiteshell Provincial Park are between 15 centimetres and 30 centimetres (six in. and one foot) above their normal summer levels. Caddy Lake is 0.5 metres (1.5 feet) above its desirable level and could rise another 7.6 cm (three in.) during the next few days even without additional rain.

Manitoba Water Stewardship with assistance of the Parks Branch of Manitoba Conservation has removed logs from dams from Brereton, Jessica, White and West Hawk lakes during the past two days to reduce or prevent further rises in levels. The control structure at West Hawk Lake had been partially opened Aug. 18 but one log was replaced today in response to very high water levels downstream on Caddy Lake.

Lakes in Nopiming Provincial Park are also very high. Bird Lake is presently at its second-highest level in the past 25 years and somewhat higher than the crest observed in early July this year. Lakes in Atikaki Provincial Park are also at above-average levels but not as seriously high.

It is possible that lake levels in the parks could rise somewhat higher, especially if significant additional rain develops from the present storm system.

Cottagers are advised to take appropriate actions to protect their properties as best as possible from high water levels.


August 17, 2009

FLOOD ADVISORY ISSUED FOR DUCK MOUNTAIN, PORCUPINE MOUNTAIN AREAS OF WESTERN MANITOBA

Manitoba Water Stewardship's Hydrologic Forecast Centre has issued a flood advisory for the Duck Mountain and Porcupine Mountain areas of western Manitoba as a result of heavy rains over the weekend.

Streams flowing off higher ground have risen rapidly after the heavy rainfall, overland flooding is occurring in low-lying areas and many smaller streams have overflowed their banks. Larger streams are still rising and most are expected to crest late today or tomorrow with minor over-bank flows in low-lying areas.

Last weekend's storm system produced 75 to 100 millimetres (three to four inches) of rain over most of the region from Ethelbert north to Mafeking. As much as 150 mm (six in.) was reported at Hart Mountain in the Porcupine Hills. Most of the rain fell from late Saturday to Sunday with some additional rain this morning.

Flooding is unlikely on the Swan River since Saskatchewan portions of the watershed appear to have received significantly less rain. It is unlikely any communities in the area will be affected by river flooding.

The weekend storm also produced up to 65 mm (2.6 in.) of rain in the Whiteshell area and in northern Minnesota. While rivers in this region will rise significantly during the next few days, over-bank flows are not expected.

Additional information will be provided if there is a significant change in conditions or expectations.


July 14, 2009

MANITOBANS AND VISITORS REMINDED TO 'BE BEAR SMART'

Manitoba Conservation reminds people with homes, cottages or campsites in or near bear country to be bear smart and stay safe when enjoying the outdoors.

Since May 2005, the Bear Smart program has encouraged people to voluntarily take proactive measures to reduce conflict between humans and black bears, reducing the risk to both people and bears. Fewer confrontations between the species also means fewer black bears are labelled as problem bears.

Last year, Manitoba Conservation staff received approximately 940 problem black-bear calls. Of these calls, 689 were investigated by staff who found attractants like bird feeders, garbage and compost as probable reasons why the bears came into contact with people and their property in rural areas including recreational areas. Property owners and cottagers can make a significant difference in reducing the number of bear encounters and bears that have to be euthanized by adopting some simple practices.

The key principle is the elimination or securing of all bear attractants. By doing this, bears will be deterred from approaching residences, cottages and campsites in search of food.

Individuals and property owners are encouraged to adopt and practice the following Bear Smart principles:
. Never approach or feed a bear.
. Take down all bird feeders between April and November.
. Double bag garbage and place it in a bear-resistant container, secured building or fenced area. Be sure to seal it in a way that will not allow odours to escape. When bear proofing, remember if it can be pried open with a crow bar, it's not bear proof.
. Clean garbage containers regularly with bleach or ammonia to stop odours.
. Take garbage with you when leaving your home or cottage, or ask a neighbour to put out the garbage for you prior to pickup.
. When practical, freeze garbage in bags and put the bags in the container just before garbage pickup and not the night before.
. Do not burn garbage.
. Do not compost any food items.
. Clean and store barbecues after each use.
. Feed pets indoors and keep food dishes indoors.
. Remove all ripened or fallen fruit in the morning and before dusk.

To reduce human-bear conflicts, traditional waste collection bins are being replaced with a
bear-proof, semi-automated containment and collection system at Grand Beach Provincial Park. By converting to a semi-automated system, it is anticipated the number of human-black bear encounters in the park will be further reduced. This system will be expanded next year into the campground areas in the park but for 2009, the system is being used at seven locations in the cottage areas.

Bears are a part of the natural environment and must be respected for the potential danger they can pose to people. When in bear country, always assume there are bears around even if there have been no recent sightings or incidents.

For more details on how to be bear smart, please refer to Manitoba Conservation's website at www.manitoba.ca/blackbear.


July 13, 2009

LAND SET ASIDE FOR OPASKWAYAK CREE NATION
- - -
Treaty Land Entitlement Commitment Continues: Struthers

OPASKWAYAK CREE NATION-Manitoba has completed the transfer to Canada of over 378,156 acres of land under the 1997 Treaty Land Entitlement Framework Agreement, Conservation Minister Stan Struthers announced at a meeting today with the Opaskwayak Cree Nation chief and council.

"Manitoba continues to work with First Nations to complete our treaty land entitlement obligations. Treaty land entitlement is a priority of the government. We continue to move forward on fulfilling our obligations to set aside 1.2 million acres under the 1997 Treaty Land Entitlement Framework Agreement," Struthers stated.

Manitoba has completed the transfer to Canada of two parcels of land totalling 13,818 acres of Crown (Manitoba) land known as 21A South (123 acres) and Egg Lake Amended (13,695 aces) for the Opaskwayak Cree Nation under the 1997 Treaty Land Entitlement Framework Agreement.

Previously 10,557 acres of land were transferred to Canada on behalf of the Opaskwayak Cree Nation. With today's announcement, the remaining Crown land entitlement for the Opaskwayak Cree Nation will be 23,282 acres, the minister added.

The land transfers fall under treaty land entitlement agreements that require Manitoba to transfer unoccupied lands to Canada so it can fulfil the treaty land entitlement obligations.

Under the 1930 Manitoba Natural Resource Transfer Agreement, the province is constitutionally obligated to set aside unoccupied Crown land to allow Canada to fulfil outstanding treaty land entitlements to First Nations. Canada is responsible for survey costs and providing funds to purchase land. The federal government is responsible for setting the land apart as reserve.

July 9, 2009
TRAVEL ADVISORY

For immediate release – July 9, 2009

Schedule Changes to VIA’s Winnipeg to Churchill Service
Trains 692 and 693 will operate two weekly roundtrips between Winnipeg and Churchill with one additional roundtrip between Churchill and The Pas
Winnipeg – VIA Rail Canada wishes to advise travellers that due to significant track improvement and upgrading work that the track owner, Omnitrax, is scheduled to begin shortly on the Hudson Bay Railway (HBR) and continue through the fall, VIA's train times are expected to be significantly affected. Hence, VIA will be modifying its schedule for trains 692 and 693 between Winnipeg and Churchill. Effective July 12, 2009, VIA will operate two times per week between Winnipeg and Churchill with one additional train per week operating between Churchill and The Pas.
As a result of this ongoing work program, VIA’s northbound train 693 will depart Winnipeg every Sunday and Tuesday at 12:05pm, arriving at The Pas on Monday and Wednesday at 01:45. Train 693 will depart The Pas at 02:30 on Monday, Wednesday and Friday arriving in Churchill the following Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings respectively.
Southbound train 692 will depart Churchill on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 7:30pm, arriving at The Pas at 11:30pm on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Train 692 will depart The Pas on Saturday and Monday only at 03:15 and arrive in Winnipeg on Saturday and Monday afternoons respectively. For a full list of arrival and departure times, please see the attached schedule.
VIA will re-evaluate this situation later this fall to determine the best operating schedule for its Winnipeg-Churchill service going forward.
VIA wishes to apologize for any inconvenience these schedule changes may cause to its passengers. Passengers are advised to call 1 888-842-6348 to determine the status of the train prior to arriving at their stop. Customers wishing further information may call 1 888-842-6348 or 1 888-VIA RAIL (842-7245).
- 30 -

VIA Contact:
Ashley Doyle
Corporate Communications
416-956-7613


June 23, 2009

PROVINCE RELEASES BLUEPRINT
FOR HEALTHY WATERSHEDS: MELNICK
- - -
Conservation Districts Take Key Role
In Long-term Plan For Cleaner Water

A blueprint for the future of Manitoba's conservation districts and a vision for creating and maintaining healthy watersheds are laid out in a new report issued today by Water Stewardship Minister Christine Melnick.

The report, entitled Framework for the Future, is based on the hard work and input from the Association of Manitoba Municipalities, the Manitoba Conservation Districts Association and the province, the minister said.

"It is my honour to work closely with our municipal partners and conservation districts to build a strong program in Manitoba and to set a clear vision for the future to achieve healthy watersheds and clean water," Melnick said. "The conservation districts program is one of the most successful land and water programs in Canada."

"The success of the program is due to the strong partnership between municipalities and the province and the input of a very large number of dedicated individuals that tirelessly work on local conservation district boards," said Doug Dobrowolski, president of the Association of Manitoba Municipalities.

Framework for the Future outlines goals and objectives for the conservation districts program for the next 15 to 20 years. Among them are:

- establishing water management and water planning as the key roles of conservation districts;

- creating new conservation districts and expanding existing districts along watershed boundaries;

- affirming that conservation districts will be governed by strong local participation and that residents of watersheds will be involved in decision-making;

- developing integrated watershed management plans with the goals of creating and maintaining healthy watersheds, protecting drinking water and meeting provincewide priorities for improved water quality including restoring the health of Lake Winnipeg;

- supporting sustainable land and water management through sound planning, strong local involvement, and education and incentive-based programs; and

- developing benchmarks to measure programming effectiveness.

"Conservation districts are well-positioned to make a real, positive and long-lasting difference to how land and water are managed within Manitoba," said Harold Foster, chair of the Manitoba Conservation Districts Association, which represents the 18 conservation districts within Manitoba. "We are pleased to work closely with our municipal and provincial partners to implement the
long-term vision set out in today's report."

Further discussions will occur on a funding allocation formula that rewards success and innovation and that is fair and equitable between rural and urban watersheds, the minister said.

"The province remains committed to supporting Manitoba's conservation districts and looks forward to working with our municipal and local partners to implement this new blueprint," she concluded.

Since 1999, participation in the conservation districts program by municipal governments has grown to 154 from 78, an increase of 97 per cent. Over the same period, provincial base funding has increased by more than 110 per cent and now stands at $5.615 million.


June 11, 2009

Travel and Tourism Industry Leaders Meet with Prime Minister Stephen Harper

TIAC President and CEO Randy Williams, along with leaders from Canada’s tourism sector, met with Prime Minister Stephen Harper on Thursday, June 4th in a roundtable discussion on the competitiveness issues facing Canada’s tourism sector.

The hour-long meeting provided an opportunity for a cross-section of industry leaders representing various aspects of the sector and all regions of the country to emphasize the importance of tourism to Canada’s economic and social well-being, and the steps that can be taken to ensure this vital sector’s prosperity in the future.

The industry leaders in attendance at the meeting were:

Randy Williams, TIAC President & CEO
Stan Cook, Stan Cook Sea Kayaking and TIAC Chair
Julie Canning, Banff Lake Louise and TIAC Co-Chair
Chris Cahill, Fairmont
Philippe Sureau, Transat
Randy Powell, Rocky Mountaineer
Tony Pollard, Hotel Association of Canada
Steve Allan, Canadian Tourism Commission
Ted Grant, Simpson Air, Nahanni Mountain Lodge
Rick Traer, Canadian Sport Tourism Alliance
Luc Fournier, Regroupement des événements majeurs internationaux
Also in attendance at the meeting was Minister of State for Small Business and Tourism, the Hon. Diane Ablonczy.

Among the topics raised at the meeting was the need to ensure access to Canada through improved airlift, improved border infrastructure and an ADS agreement with China, as well as the need to invest in marketing Canada to the world. The group of industry leaders emphasized that tourism has the potential create economic benefits for every community in Canada by creating jobs and providing increased tax revenues.

The presentations were very well received by the Prime Minister, who released a statement after the meeting indicating the government’s intent to move forward on a Federal Tourism Strategy. In the statement, the Prime Minister noted that that tourism is “an increasingly important industry that supports small businesses in every region of our country and keeps thousands of Canadians employed” and that “(b)y working together, we will build a tourism industry that employs thousands more people and showcases the very best of Canada to the world.”

Click here to view the Prime Minister’s statement, along with information on the Federal Tourism Strategy Framework.

For more information, please contact:

Randy Williams
TIAC President and CEO
613-238-8765
rwilliams@tiac.travel




May 12, 2009

PROVINCE, TREATY ONE FIRST NATIONS SIGN MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING TO STRENGTHEN WORKING RELATIONSHIP

A memorandum of understanding to further improve the working relationship between First Nations and the Province of Manitoba was signed today by Culture, Heritage, Tourism and Sport Minister Eric Robinson, acting Aboriginal and northern affairs minister, Conservation Minister Stan Struthers, and Treaty One chiefs.

"We welcome the opportunity to have a more productive working relationship with the Treaty One First Nations and this agreement signifies the movement toward developing a government-to-government relationship," said Robinson. "Treaty One has a number of issues to address with the province and this document helps create the forum for discussions."

"This agreement will further improve and strengthen the work done by the First Nations and the provincial government on treaty rights and provides the opportunity for greater clarity and understanding," said Struthers. "As well, existing levels of treaty knowledge in the provincial government will be enhanced through this initiative."

"The chiefs of Treaty One welcome this memorandum of understanding as a new renovation of the 1871 treaty in a way that does not relieve the federal Crown of its responsibilities. It is only right that neighbours should work together in this way and we congratulate the provincial government for having accepted our invitation to work together," said Chief Terrance Nelson of Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation, one of the Treaty One First Nations.

The memorandum creates a collaborative process to co-ordinate discussions on issues of common interest or concern in the Treaty One territory and identifies opportunities for co-operation in addressing priority issues.

Treaty One acts as an umbrella organization to the First Nations of Sandy Bay, Brokenhead, Long Plain, Roseau River, Swan Lake, Sagkeeng and Peguis. These First Nations are signatories to Treaty One signed at Lower Fort Garry on Aug. 3, 1871.




May 11, 2008

MANITOBA INCREASES SUPPORT FOR PIMACHIOWIN AKI WORLD HERITAGE PROJECT ON EAST SIDE OF LAKE WINNIPEG
- - -
New Resources to Support Traditional Lands Planning, Nomination Document: Struthers

Manitoba is providing $531,000 in additional new financial and staffing support in 2009-10 for traditional lands planning and a UNESCO World Heritage Site nomination for the east side of Lake Winnipeg, Conservation Minister Stan Struthers announced today.

"As First Nations pursue their bid for a world heritage designation in eastern Manitoba and northwestern Ontario, the province will increase support for their efforts with investments in traditional lands planning," said Struthers. The minister noted the Little Grand Rapids and Pauingassi First Nations will receive priority attention as their land-use plans will be an essential component of the nomination document for the UNESCO world heritage designation.

The minister notes this investment includes a 30-per-cent increase in grant funding for the Pimachiowin Aki Corporation to prepare the nomination document and video. Manitoba Conservation funding in 2009-10 will increase by $80,000 to $340,000.

The Pimachiowin Aki Corporation, which is led by the Poplar River, Little Grand Rapids, Pauingassi and Pikagikum, Ont., First Nations, has a number of projects underway that will contribute to the final nomination document. Extensive community consultations, research, mapping and comprehensive community-based, land-use planning are required to complete the nomination. It will include the final boundaries of the site and will also describe the innovative ways the area will be managed using both traditional Anishinabe and western scientific knowledge.

"We continue to support the vision of a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Manitoba and Ontario and want to do our part to ensure this nomination meets the tough standards set by the World Heritage Committee and that it is developed as quickly as possible," said Culture, Heritage, Tourism and Sport Minister Eric Robinson, acting minister of Aboriginal and northern affairs.

Pimachiowin Aki spokesperson Sophia Rabliauskas noted that, while these plans are being developed, the corporation is continuing its work on a variety of studies and community consultations required for the nomination. The completed nomination will include the final boundaries of the site and will also describe the innovative ways the area will be managed using both traditional Anishinabe and western scientific knowledge.

"Our UNESCO nomination has to be very detailed, starting with a vision from each of the First Nations partners on how they see the land being used and cared for. Our land-use plan for Poplar River is complete and the focus is now on getting the land-use plans for Little Grand Rapids and Pauingassi completed. These extra resources and funding will help them get a lot of important work completed," she said.

Creating a world heritage site in the area would not change the ownership of the land. Each jurisdiction would be responsible for planning and management in its area and all Aboriginal and treaty rights would remain fully protected, Struthers said.

For more information on Pimachiowin Aki Corporation, contact Gord Jones, project manager, at whp@shaw.ca or 204-275-1564 or visit www.pimachiowinaki.org. For more information on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) visit whc.unesco.org/.


May 7, 2009

REDUCING RISK OF WILDFIRES, ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGE AIM OF NEW RULES FOR ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLES: STRUTHERS

New initiatives aimed at reducing the risk of wildfires and environmental damage caused by all-terrain vehicles were announced today by Conservation Minister Stan Struthers.

"Over the last couple of years there have been a notable number of wildfires linked to the use of
all-terrain vehicles in forested areas and in some of the province's marshland," said Struthers. "These fires have resulted in the loss of millions of dollars in timber and increased the province's firefighting costs."

Fires can start when debris gets lodged in and around the engine and exhaust pipes of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), ignites from the heat and falls off, starting a wildfire.

Effective immediately, any organization or person wanting to use Crown land, including in a provincial forest, for holding an ATV event such as a derby or rally is required to get a permit from the province. Penalties under the Crown Lands Act are not to exceed $10,000. The policy does not apply to snowmobile events.

All-terrain vehicle events are prohibited in all provincial parks and wildlife management areas and in those areas under protected area status in provincial forests. No ATV use is permitted in the province's ecological reserves.

While all-terrain vehicles are out-selling snowmobiles and the number of registered ATVs has doubled in the past five years, there has not been a provincial association to represent the ATV community, develop and maintain a network of trails and deal with emerging issues and problems. All-Terrain Vehicle of Manitoba (ATV MB) has just recently been formed and the province will be working with the new association to promote responsible ATV use throughout Manitoba.

"The province is pleased to be able to work with the newly formed association ATV MB to address concerns about ATV use including educating riders on their responsibilities and potential impacts when riding on public lands," Struthers said.

"We look forward to working with the government to ensure the continued safe use of off-road and
all-terrain vehicles in Manitoba," said Chris Fox-Decent, president of the All-Terrain Vehicle of Manitoba Inc. "Responsible operators know the importance of being aware of the environment and we are prepared to work with all users to reduce the impacts of ATV use on public land."

The province will soon be launching an information campaign to help educate ATV users about the potential of causing forest fires, and about ways to reduce the risk of wildfires. The minister also reminded everyone who uses forests and natural areas of their responsibility to protect against wildfires and to take the necessary precautions such as:
. ensuring ATVs are equipped with a spark arrestor,
. checking the vehicle engine area and exhaust system periodically to ensure it is clear of debris,
. ensuring debris is removed and disposed of properly as this is often a source for starting fires,
. never parking an ATV on dry grass or vegetation as the manifold can heat up to over +500 C,
. driving ATVs only on marked roads and trails, and
. carrying a fire extinguisher, axe and shovel as a precaution.


May 5, 2009

MORATORIUM ON DAUPHIN LAKE FISHERY TO END AT MIDNIGHT TONIGHT

Manitoba Water Stewardship advises the closure and fishing restrictions on the Dauphin Lake tributaries put in place April 20 have been lifted.

The measures included a moratorium on all fishing of walleye on the Turtle and Valley rivers, along with a daily limit of six walleye on other major tributaries during the spawning season. Based on monitoring of the tributaries, Manitoba Water Stewardship has determined that spawning is now complete.

The department said the conservation measures were in addition to existing measures including reductions in the commercial harvest of walleye from Lake Dauphin, reductions in the daily catch limit of walleye for anglers, the requirement that all spawning-sized walleye be released and closure of all commercial and recreational fishing during the spring spawning season.

The department said the Province of Manitoba remains committed to working with the West Region Tribal Council and other commercial and recreational users of the fishery to ensure a sustainable fishery.


May 1, 2009

MORATORIUM ON DAUPHIN LAKE FISHERY EXTENDED TO PROTECT SPAWNING
WALLEYE

Manitoba Water Stewardship advises the conservation measures put
in place to protect walleye populations in Lake Dauphin will be
extended until May 8.

The moratorium that was implemented on April 20 was to end on May
3, but the spawning season has been prolonged because of cool
temperatures. Normally, the spawning season takes place in the
last two weeks of April, but this year will extend into the first
week of May.

The moratorium on all walleye fishing in two tributaries of
Dauphin Lake, plus limits on other tributaries during spawning
season, will help keep fish stocks healthy for future
generations. This temporary closure prohibits catching and
retaining walleye on the Turtle and Valley rivers from

April 20 to and including May 8.

To ensure the closure on the Turtle and Valley rivers does not
shift unsustainable fishing harvest onto other Dauphin Lake
tributaries, anyone exercising an Aboriginal or treaty right to
fish for food will be limited to a daily total limit of six
walleye caught by angling only (rod and reel) from all of the
Wilson, Vermillion and Ochre rivers and Edwards and Mink creeks
from April 20 to and including

May 8.

Manitoba Water Stewardship will continue to monitor the spawning
of walleye in these tributaries and if spawning is completed
earlier than is now anticipated, the moratorium may end sooner
than May 8 to ensure minimum infringement of treaty and
Aboriginal rights.

These steps are in addition to existing measures such as
reductions in the commercial harvest of walleye from Lake
Dauphin, reductions of the daily catch limit of walleye for
anglers, requiring all spawning-sized walleye to be released and
closure of all commercial and recreational fishing during the
spring spawning season.

The Province of Manitoba remains committed to working with the
West Region Tribal Council and other commercial and recreational
users of the fishery to establish a long-term co-management
agreement and protocol that respects the advice of area elders.



 

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