VICTORIA - The B.C. Cattlemen's Association has received another boost for its program to maintain and restore riparian ecosystems, thanks to a $30,000 grant from the B.C. government.

Riparian areas are the transitional zones between waterways (such as rivers, streams and lakes) and their surrounding landscapes. These important ecosystems contain crucial fish and wildlife habitat and also feature a variety of plant life, including forage for livestock who use riparian areas to access drinking water.

The $30,000 grant will support the B.C. Cattlemen's Association's Farmland-Riparian Interface Stewardship Program. This program offers information, resources and financial assistance to farmers and ranchers to help identify, assess and restore riparian areas affected by erosion, unwanted weeds, poor forage production, animal or vehicle damage, or diminished wildlife populations.

The objective is to re-establish healthy riparian areas that benefit nearby communities, livestock operations and local wildlife, while increasing streambed stability, restoring natural ecosystems and encouraging the growth of foreshore vegetation.

This year, the program also received a $40,000 grant from the B.C. Cattlemen's Association and a $22,000 contribution from the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans.

Quotes:

Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Steve Thomson -

"Riparian ecosystems are vital components of British Columbia's natural environment. The Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations is pleased to support this stewardship program and acknowledge the B.C. Cattlemen's Association's leadership role in protecting and enhancing these important areas."

Kevin Boon, general manager of the B.C. Cattlemen's Association -

"The B.C. Cattlemen's Association appreciates the ministry's support and recognition of the value that the Farmland-Riparian Interface Stewardship Program (FRISP) provides. Ranchers are entrusted with these lands, and FRISP provides them with the tools necessary to make enhancements in the most natural and environmentally friendly way. It is a win-win for both ranching and nature."

Learn More:

Farmland-Riparian Interface Stewardship Program: http://www.cattlemen.bc.ca/FRISP.htm

Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations: http://www.gov.bc.ca/for/

B.C. Cattlemen's Association: http://www.cattlemen.bc.ca/

Media Contacts:

Brennan Clarke
Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261

Kevin Boon
General Manager
B.C. Cattlemen's Association
250 573-3611