Winnipeg (MB)/IBNS: Committed to conserving and enhancing fish and wildlife, Canada's Manitoba government this year has approved $473,000 for new projects through the Fish and Wildlife Enhancement Fund (FWEF), Natural Resources and Northern Development Minister Greg Nesbitt announced last week

“I am pleased to announce that $473,000 for new project approvals this year will help conserve, manage and enhance fish and wildlife species across our great province,” Nesbitt has said in a news release.

Focusing on infrastructure improvements across the province, the new projects include the installation of boat launches and floating docks, wildlife management area enhancements, and educational campaigns to enhance community engagement with Manitobans, the minister noted.

An additional $750,000 contribution by the Manitoba government to support the 2024 FWEF grant process is underway in order for applications to be considered in this round of proposals, letters of intent must be submitted by Sept. 1.

Non-profit groups, local agencies and research organizations can apply for funding for initiatives that conserve, enhance Manitoba’s fish and wildlife populations including study fish and wildlife populations, promote education for sustainable and ethical hunting and angling practices, protect or improve critical fish and wildlife production habitat; and secure property to provide public access to angling and hunting opportunities or to protect critical fish and wildlife production habitat.

The Manitoba government contributes every year 10 percent of the annual fees collected from recreational angling, hunting and trapping licences, all restitution payments collected from fish and wildlife infractions, and all voluntary donations to the fund.

(Reporting by Asha Bajaj)