LEAMINGTON, ONTARIO, May 12, 2007 -- On behalf of the Honourable John Baird, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Member of Parliament for Chatham-Kent–Essex, Dave Van Kesteren, and the International Wildlife Refuge Alliance, today launched the international bird driving tour "Byways to Flyways". Today's event is appropriately held on International Migratory Bird Day.
This eco-tourism and education project, which aims to bring people and nature together, is a partnership of the International Wildlife Refuge Alliance and Michigan Sea Grant, supported by Wild Birds Unlimited, Inc. Pathways to Nature Program. Parks Canada, along with other partners, have provided in-kind contributions to the initiative. A brochure and a driving tour map were designed for this project. The driving tour, highlighting 21 significant birding 'hotspots' in Southeast Michigan and Southwest Ontario, includes information about the global significance of avian habitat and history.
"With birding clearly established as an economic generator in North America and the position of the Essex and Kent regions at the crossroads of two migratory flyways, this area is well poised to deliver a premier-ranked birding destination and increase tourism to the region," said Mr. Van Kesteren. "Communities, governments and international groups are working together to celebrate this amazing migration phenomenon through conservation and education initiatives."
A recent study examining birding opportunities in the Essex region states that, "25,000 birders visit the region each year, with direct spending of $12.4 to $14.4 million." Point Pelee National Park of Canada, which is owned and operated by Parks Canada, was identified as the most important birding destination in the region, complemented by Holiday Beach Conservation Area, Hillman Marsh Conservation Area, Pelee Island and Ojibway Park as key secondary sites. The launch of "Byways to Flyways" meets several recommendations found in the study including product development, packaging the regional birding products and working collaboratively to achieve greater success.
"This will truly be a unique project to showcase outstanding birding opportunities in both Southeast Michigan and Southwest Ontario as part of North America's only International Wildlife Refuge," notes Congressman John D. Dingell.
On behalf of the people of Canada, Parks Canada protects and presents nationally significant examples of Canada's natural and cultural heritage and fosters public understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of its heritage treasures in ways that ensure their ecological and commemorative integrity for present and future generations.
The mission of the International Wildlife Refuge Alliance is to support the first International Wildlife Refuge in North America – the Detroit River – through partnerships to protect, conserve and manage the refuge's wildlife and habitats, and to create exceptional conservation, recreational and educational experiences to develop the next generation of conservation stewards.
Each partner is working together to demonstrate the importance of collaborative initiatives among communities, regions and countries to increase awareness of bird conservation, environmental education and the economic benefits of birding as a core attractor for the region.
Information:
Marian Stranak
Superintendent
Point Pelee National Park of Canada
Parks Canada
519-322-2365 Extension 212
Erika Taves
Communications and Marketing
Point Pelee National Park of Canada
Parks Canada
519-322-2365 Extension 206
