April 4, 2005 Black's Harbour, New Brunswick Construction is underway for the creation of a Coastal Development Centre, thanks to support by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). An undertaking by Eastern Charlotte Waterways Inc., (ECW) this Aquaculture initiative will help develop and apply soft-shell clam enhancement and management systems and provide monitoring and analytical services related to the sustainable management and development of coastal resources in Southern New Brunswick. The project includes the relocation of existing offices and equipment to a new facility on Main Street in Black's Harbour; upgrades to the new facility to minimize energy use and enhance building structure; the acquisition of equipment to provide services required for soft shell clam management; and the development of a laboratory that will provide microbiology services for the industry. ACOA has invested $382,152 under its Strategic Community Investment Fund (SCIF), a component of the Atlantic Investment Partnership (AIP). Construction is expected to be completed by March 31, 2006. "The Government of Canada, through ACOA is pleased to support such a project that will work to provide sustainability and development of the aquaculture industry," said the Honourable Andy Scott, MP for Fredericton, on behalf of the Honourable Joseph McGuire, Minister for ACOA. "Further improvements and sound management will have a significant impact on the long-term viability of the industry, enhancing economic benefits for local area communities." "We are very happy to partner with ACOA in the development of this project," said Susan Farquharson, Executive Director, Eastern Charolotte Waterways Inc. "The funding we received from the federal government was a key factor in launching this initiative, which promises to create a necessary service while enhancing opportunities for marine based industry." ECW is a non-profit Environmental Resource Centre which provides environmental services regionally, nationally and internationally. The organization provides research, monitoring and resource management services to a wide range of technology and community based organizations. ECW is a winner of the Gulf of Maine Visionary Award (1999) and the first New Brunswick Environmental leadership Award (2002). SCIF was created to support strategic initiatives that contribute to community economic development in Atlantic Canada. Its purpose is to help communities create opportunities for economic development that will stimulate employment and attract investments. For more information on ACOA's programs, visit our web site at: www.acoa-apeca.gc.ca - 30 - Valérie Poulin Director of Communications Office of the Honourable Joseph McGuire (613) 941-7241 Ann Kenney Senior Communications Officer ACOA (506) 452-3687 Susan Farquharson, Eastern Charlotte WaterwaysInc. (506) 456-6001
