RBC supports DUC wetland research in Saskatchewan
Study to look at water quality and quantity in Upper Assiniboine
watershed
June 11, 2010
Oak Hammock Marsh, Man. - Ducks Unlimited Canada
(DUC) has been announced as RBC's newest Blue Water Project
partner and is receiving a RBC leadership grant of $400,000
over the next four years for research on water and wetland-related
issues in Saskatchewan.
To commemorate the first RBC Blue Water Day, events recognizing
the new DUC partnership are being celebrated at five RBC branches
across Saskatchewan today. An event at the RBC branch in Wadena
was held yesterday.
"It's important for organizations such as ours to identify
and communicate the value of wetlands, and with the support
of this research through the RBC Blue Water Fund we will do
this more effectively," says Brent Kennedy, Saskatchewan
Manager of Provincial Operations for DUC. "The results
from this study will not only assist DUC in its wetland and
waterfowl conservation work in the very heart of "duck
country" - it will also help ensure a healthier environment
for future generations."
"Once again, we were pleased by the quality of grant
applications this year for the RBC Blue Water Project,"
said Rob Johnston, RBC's Regional President Saskatchewan,
Manitoba and North West Ontario. "It's gratifying to
see that there's such a vital network of organizations who
share our concern for water and that so many people are doing
critical, on-the-ground work protecting fresh water resources
worldwide. We are very proud to support Ducks Unlimited Canada
with a $400,000 donation in support of the important research
they will be doing in Southern Saskatchewan."
DUC's research project will take place in the Upper Assiniboine
River Basin watershed near Yorkton, Sask. This study will
look at the impacts of wetland loss on water quality, quantity,
and greenhouse gas emissions. Wetlands provide many other
benefits, such as important habitat for wildlife, ground water
recharge potential, ecotourism opportunities, flood, drought
and erosion prevention, carbon sequestration, and important
social and cultural benefits to the people of Saskatchewan
and to all Canadians.
Saskatchewan is a very important area in Canada for waterfowl
and other wildlife. This area within the Prairie Pothole Region
(PPR) is deemed by DU conservation planners as one of the
most important breeding areas for waterfowl in North America.
"Unfortunately, for many reasons, wetland loss is significant
in Saskatchewan, and the Upper Assiniboine River Basin watershed
is no exception," says Kennedy. "This is why DUC
chose the southern Saskatchewan location for our new research
study. DUC is currently seeking opportunities with other partners
to explore research prospects and appropriate research sites
in the Upper Assiniboine River Basin watershed."
DUC's goal is to use the improved understanding of wetland
values and the impacts of wetland loss to garner public support
to achieve wetland protection through an effective and efficient
government policy.
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Ducks Unlimited Canada is a private, non-profit organization
that conserves, restores and manages wetlands and associated
habitats for waterfowl. These habitats also benefit other
wildlife and people.
The RBC Blue Water Project is a ten-year, $50 million
philanthropic commitment to supporting organizations that
protect watersheds and ensure access to clean drinking water
in Canada and abroad.
For more information, please contact:
Karli Reimer, k_reimer@ducks.ca
National Marketing and Communications
Ducks Unlimited Canada
(204) 467-3279
ducks.ca
Liz Redston, liz.redston@rbc.com
Manager Public Affairs and Communications
RBC Royal Bank
(204) 988-3516
rbc.com
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