The Manitoba government has approved $958,000 for new projects this year through the Fish and Wildlife Enhancement Fund (FWEF) as part of its ongoing commitment to conserve and enhance fish and wildlife.

“Protecting Manitoba’s fish and wildlife habitats and populations is a priority for our government,” said Economic Development, Investment, Trade and Natural Resources Minister Jamie Moses. “I am pleased to announce that $958,000 will be provided to support 17 projects across the province this year to help protect, monitor, and enhance fish and wildlife species, as well as increase public education and access to fishing and hunting opportunities.”

The new projects will focus on population and habitat enhancement, habitat protection, research to improve angling opportunities, education for young anglers through fishing day camps, hunter education, and improved public access including upgrading docks, the minister noted.

Established in 2014, the FWEF supports conservation of critical fish and wildlife habitat and populations through projects recommended by Manitoba recreational anglers, hunters and trappers. Projects are identified through a competitive grant process and through innovative leadership projects overseen and recommended by the FWEF advisory committee.

Non-profit groups, local agencies and research organizations with interests in fish and wildlife can apply for funding for activities that enhance sustainable use and management of fish and wildlife populations within Manitoba including those that:

  • study fish and wildlife populations;
  • conserve and enhance Manitoba’s fish and wildlife populations;
  • promote sustainable and ethical hunting and angling practices through education;
  • protect or improve critical fish and wildlife production habitat; and
  • secure property to provide public access to angling and hunting opportunities or to protect critical fish and wildlife production habitat.

The fund continues to grow every year, as the Manitoba government contributes 10 per cent of the annual fees collected from recreational angling, hunting and trapping licences. In addition, the fund is supported through restitution payments collected from fish and wildlife infractions, along with donations to the fund.

For information, visit mbhabitat.ca.