Cornwall Ontario — Member of Parliament Guy Lauzon, on behalf of the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, highlighted today the Government of Canada’s investment in the shoreline restoration along the St. Lawrence River. Through the Recreational Fisheries Conservation Partnerships Program (RFCPP), the Raisin Region Conservation Authority will receive up to $26,410 in second round funding to support the conservation of fish habitat in the Cornwall area.

The funding will increase the amount and quality of riparian habitat along the St. Lawrence River, benefiting a variety of fish and wildlife species including Yellow Perch, Northern Pike, Walleye, Muskellunge and Bass.

“I’ve been proud to partner with the Raisin Region Conservation Authority to advocate for recreational fishing as an important economic activity which contributes billions to our economy and is an important part of our heritage. Together with our like-minded partners, we recognize the importance of protecting and restoring fishing habitats for generations to come”, said Guy Lauzon.

As part of the National Conservation Plan, the RFCPP was created to restore Canada’s waterways and to ensure sustainability and ongoing productivity of our recreational fisheries. Given its success in ensuring a more coordinated approach to conservation efforts across the country, and high demand, the Government of Canada increased the investment in the Economic Action Plan 2014 to a total of $25 million.

The RRCA will contribute to the conservation and restoration of our country’s natural environment and connect Canadians to our rich natural heritage.

Since 2006, the Government of Canada has taken important steps to conserve and restore our country’s natural environment and connect Canadians to our rich natural heritage. The window to apply for funding under Round IV is now open and applications will be accepted until December 12th, 2014. Details about the program can be found on the Program’s Web site (www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/pnw-ppe/rfcpp-ppcpr/index-eng.html) where you can also sign up for updates.