SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES GRANTS AWARDED

Saskatchewan fulfilled another commitment in protecting the environment and addressing climate change today, with the awarding of over $800,000 in funding from the Sustainable Communities portion of the Green Initiatives Fund, part of the province's Green Strategy.

The Sustainable Communities grants are part of the $7.5 million in Green Strategy funding that was announced on April 12. The Sustainable Communities funding provides individuals, organizations, communities and Aboriginal organizations with money for climate change adaptation, water conservation and protection, green agriculture and sustainable development.

"Saskatchewan's Green Strategy focuses on partnerships, innovations and stewardship," Environment Minister John Nilson said. "It is what we need to deliver our vision of Saskatchewan people acting together to achieve improved human health and education and a thriving, sustainable economy, all supported by a diverse and enduring environment."

Successful projects selected for funding fall under six categories:

• Climate Change
• Ecosystem Conservation
• Ecotourism
• Green Agriculture
• Sustainable Development Awareness
• Water Conservation and Source Water Protection

A list of the grant recipients is attached. Those who qualified for grants under the Sustainable Communities funding were encouraged to also apply for grants from the federal government.

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For more information, contact:

Traci Braaten
Environment
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1611
Email: Traci.Braaten@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-536-3852