“CRD Parks has shown strong conservation leadership in spearheading efforts to protect rare forest plants and shrubs,” says Lynn McIntyre, Director of Stewardship Programs for Wildlife Habitat Canada. “Maintaining the biodiversity of the forest ecosystem is what good stewardship is all about.”

CRD Parks staff are working to restore Garry oak ecosystems where researchers have found about a dozen species of rare native plants. Restoration and monitoring efforts have included the most up-to-date methods of removing invasive plants and shrubs.

“I'm pleased to accept the forest stewardship award on behalf of CRD Parks,” says Karen Watson, CRD Parks Committee Chair. “Staff have done an outstanding job and provided leadership in protecting natural areas. Our experience and success at Mill Hill will help in planning other ecosystem restoration projects in the region.” Chair Watson also noted that this project would not have been possible without the financial support of the Government of Canada Habitat Stewardship Program for Species at Risk.

More than 135 individuals, organizations and companies have received the forest stewardship award since the program was established in 1998. This year, ten forest stewardship awards will be presented. Winners receive a limited edition print of a painting entitled New Morning by BC artist Don Li-Leger.

The founding partners of the Forest Stewardship Recognition Program are Wildlife Habitat Canada, the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, the Canadian Forest Service and the Forest Products Association of Canada.

For more information contact:

Mr. Lynn McIntyre
Director of Stewardship Programs
Wildlife Habitat Canada
Tel: 1-800-669-7919 ext. 234