The Manitoba government is providing more than $8.5 million to support conservancy and educational activities at FortWhyte Alive.
“For three decades, FortWhyte Alive has been a leader in nature education and advancing conservation, helping generations of Manitobans and visitors understand the value of a healthy natural environment,” said Premier Brian Pallister. “Programs that deliver environmental education are important for the future of our province and planet, and our government is proud to support FortWhyte Alive and the tremendous work it does to help teach and support our leaders of tomorrow.”
The province’s $4.5-million commitment to the FortWhyte Forever Capital Campaign includes a deep energy retrofit of the interpretive centre exterior and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) in interior spaces and exhibits. A new Buffalo Crossing multi-purpose public facility will be constructed, and will feature educational and recreational elements including adventure and nature play areas.
The contribution is being made through the New Building Canada Fund – Provincial-Territorial Infrastructure Component – National and Regional Projects, with the Government of Canada also investing $4.7 million.
Work is underway on the interpretive centre and construction on the Buffalo Crossing facility is anticipated to begin in early 2021, with project completion being targeted for 2022, the premier noted.
“Now more than ever, we see how important time spent in nature is as it restores us, builds resilience and gives us a sense of hope,” said Liz Wilson, president and CEO of FortWhyte Alive. “This forward-thinking investment by the Province of Manitoba provides stability to FortWhyte Alive and ensures hands-on environmental education, grounded in climate change science, will be accessible for generations of Manitobans.”
The province has also provided a $4-million contribution to the FortWhyte Forever Endowment Fund held by The Winnipeg Foundation. This contribution will generate revenue of approximately $200,000 per year to consolidate and replace long-standing annual program support previously provided by several provincial government grants.
“Our government is committed to a cleaner, greener Manitoba, and that includes a bright, sustainable future for FortWhyte Alive,” said the premier.
In May 2020, an additional $75,000 was committed to FortWhyte Alive’s exhibits and create an interpretive plan, the premier added. This funding was provided through the Building Sustainable Communities program, which provides grants to non-profit and charitable organization, municipalities and Northern Affairs community councils.
