Canadian Wildlife Federation seeks details from federal budget

OTTAWA, March 30, 2012 /PRNewswire/ – The Canadian Wildlife Federation says
some elements of the federal budget at first take seem agreeable, while
others raise concerns.  The Federation will continue to closely monitor
and analyze yesterday’s federal budget as more information and details
become available.

Upon initial review, the government’s re-investment into Species At Risk
Act and water quality appears positive. But it is crucial to understand
how and where federal cuts will be made and how they will affect
programs.

“CWF has worked with government over the past 50 years to establish many
of the foundations of our current approach to conservation,” says Rick
Bates, CWF Executive Director. ”We have reviewed the federal budget and
see some areas of concern. We understand the need for fiscal
responsibility, but staff cuts should maintain the scientific capacity
to allow good decisions for development and conservation.”

While not in the budget document, CWF remains concerned about the
possible weakening of regulations to protect fish and fish habitat. CWF
looks forward to discussions with the federal government to find an
approach to fish habitat protection which provides clarity and
efficiency to industry while maintaining strong conservation outcomes
for fish and fish habitat.

CWF is also concerned over potential weakening of the environmental
assessment process.  It is important that project reviews be done in a
timely fashion, but also important that this be done in a way that
continues to provide clear protection to the environment.

“Renewable resources provide Canadians with many of the basic elements
that we need to live a healthy life — clean air, water, food and
opportunities for recreation. The same systems that provide these
benefits also provide the foundation for much of our economy.  It is
critical that we carefully examine any changes that may affect these
resources.” says Bates.

Today, with more than 300,000 members, CWF is Canada’s largest
conservation organization with projects across Canada. CWF will remain
vigilant; closely monitoring new details as they emerge and looks
forward to government consulting with NGO’s to make the best informed
decisions to benefit all Canadians.

About the Canadian Wildlife Federation:

This year the Canadian Wildlife Federation (CWF) is commemorating 50
years of conserving and protecting Canadian wildlife and its habitat.
Formed in 1962, its unique combination of action, engagement and
trusted environmental education has been at the forefront of Canadian
conservation ever since.

CWF is a national non-profit charitable organization dedicated to
ensuring an appreciation of our natural world and a lasting legacy of
healthy wildlife and habitat. By spreading knowledge of human impacts
on the environment, developing and delivering educational programs,
sponsoring research, promoting the sustainable use of natural
resources, recommending policy changes and co-operating with
like-minded partners, CWF encourages a future in which Canadians can
live in harmony with nature. For more information, visit CanadianWildlifeFederation.ca.

SOURCE CANADIAN WILDLIFE FEDERATION