NR – 09.041 - June 4, 2009
OTTAWA –The Department of National Defence (DND) and Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which will result in sound management practices for protecting waterfowl habitat on DND land.
"DND is committed to operating in ways that conserve resources and protect the environment" said the Honourable Peter Gordon MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway. "Today's announcement is an example of this Department's commitment to environmental stewardship."
DND owns or leases a significant amount of land across Canada, much of which contains wetlands. Unique habitats, such as wetlands, need to be managed in a manner consistent with the ideals of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, signed by Canada, The United States and Mexico. This international action plan was developed to conserve migratory birds throughout the continent.
"Ducks Unlimited Canada has had a long standing and productive relationship with the Department of National Defence," said Jeffery Nelson, DUC's executive vice-president. "We are very pleased to formalize our relationship and take this next step towards enhancing the environmental sustainability of habitat on DND lands across Canada."
With significant experience and expertise in waterfowl habitat conservation, DUC will assist DND in achieving its goals and objectives for sustainable military training and natural resource management.
This MOU will serve as a national framework to facilitate the development of local agreements between DUC and the Department's bases and wings.
DND holds a large number of properties all across the country to support the Canadian Forces, including some 21,000 buildings; 2.25 million hectares of land; 5,500 km of roads; and 3,000 km of water, storm, and sewer pipes.
Notes to the Editor:
For more information about Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC), please consult their website at: http://www.ducks.ca/
