Government of Canada Funds Research on Bison Population Dynamics
Big River, Saskatchewan, June 9, 2010--The Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, today announced an important investment into a bison research and monitoring project led by Laval University. The contribution will provide up to $70,000 over two years towards genetic and habitat use research on the Sturgeon River Plains bison and will be supplemented by up to $159,000 worth of in-kind support to the project from Parks Canada.
“I am delighted about the Government of Canada and Laval University joining forces to address the challenges that surround the existence of a free-ranging population,” said Minister Prentice. “The Sturgeon River Plains bison is Canada’s only free-ranging Plains bison population still within their natural range. This funding will enable research helping Parks Canada and stakeholders to develop a responsible and effective management plan for this important species.
The Sturgeon River Plains bison population is a wild herd that lives primarily within Prince Albert National Park. The herd also forages outside the park, occasionally bringing them into conflict with landowners by disturbing livestock or damaging property and crops. Parks Canada is responsible for the protection and recovery of species and their critical habitats on lands and waters that are part of its network of protected places. Information collected through this research project will be critical in developing effective techniques to increase the amount of time that bison spend within Prince Albert National Park boundaries and mitigate the effects of their presence in surrounding agricultural lands.
“Plains bison nearly disappeared altogether from North America,” added Minister Prentice. “Parks Canada is committed to working with stakeholders and neighbours to further the protection and management of this species and the ecosystem they depend on.”
Established in 1928, Prince Albert National Park protects a transition zone between the southern parklands and the northern forests of Saskatchewan.
Information:
Marilyn Peckett
A/Superintendent
Prince Albert National Park
Parks Canada
306-663-4501
