December 09, 2003

Conservation districts use cost-effective, integrated resource management programs to make significant improvements to Manitoba’s rural landscape, Water Stewardship Minister Steve Ashton said today at the 28^th annual convention of the Manitoba Conservation Districts Association. Ashton also announced the extension and expansion of the riparian tax credit.

"The conservation district concept started 31 years ago and it continues to play an important role, especially with a focus on youth education," said Ashton. "It is encouraging to see the future stewards of the land learning about the different resources in watersheds and how they relate."

Ashton also announced the extension and expansion of the Riparian Tax Credit. The innovative program offers property tax credits in return for good management of riparian zones, the sensitive land bordering creeks and rivers that is important for preserving wildlife habitat, maintaining water quality and buffering against the effects of droughts and floods. The riparian tax credit will be extended for another year and expanded to include land along the Red and Assiniboine rivers.

"The riparian tax credit encourages the elimination of tillage and the limitation of grazing by livestock on lands adjacent to rivers and streams," said Ashton. "Management of the strip of land adjacent to rivers and streams can reduce erosion, improve water quality downstream and reduce emission of greenhouse gases."

Ashton made the comments before delegates from 16 conservation districts representing 120 rural municipalities who gathered at the convention in Brandon.

Conservation districts rely on more than 400 volunteers who participate as board members and develop practical solutions that are unique to the area they live in for projects such as water, soil, wildlife, fish habitat, the protection of shorelines and water quality. The districts also form partnerships with the province and a number of other government and non-government agencies.

"I am very pleased to note that the Whitemud and Cooks Creek conservation districts have entered into a partnership with Manitoba Conservation to assist in the drainage application process," said Ashton. "This partnership has developed a process that allows requests to be dealt with within weeks rather than months."

The minister also noted that the West Souris River and Pembina Valley conservation districts are working with neighbouring municipalities in Saskatchewan and North Dakota, respectively, to develop sustainable watershed plans. "Water has no boundaries and the co-operative nature of the districts goes a long way toward keeping a focus on the health of the resource regardless of where it may be situated.

"The provincial government has made a clear commitment to improving water quality in the province starting with the Water Strategy and entities such as the Lake Winnipeg Stewardship Board, and extending and expanding the riparian tax credit. We look forward to the continued good work of the conservation districts and their assistance in implementing watershed management programs."

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