Margaree-Lake Ainslie Canadian Heritage River

Environment Minister Michel Samson today announced formal designation of the Margaree-Lake Ainslie River as a Canadian Heritage River.

"It gives me a great deal of pleasure to confirm that this outstanding river system has been honoured by this prestigious designation," said Mr. Samson. "The Margaree River is truly a gemstone among Cape Breton's treasures."

The Margaree-Lake Ainslie system was identified as a candidate for Canadian Heritage River in 1991, following a provincewide study of Nova Scotia rivers. Government worked with a local advisory committee to help identify and address community concerns in preparation of a management plan. This plan was approved by the province in April 1998. Designation was formally approved at the federal level on Sept. 24, 1998, by Sheila Copps, Minister of Canadian Heritage.

Pierre Chiasson is the chair of the Margaree-Lake Ainslie River System Advisory Committee. "This designation recognizes that the people of the Margarees have been good stewards of the river system over the years, and we trust that this will provide an opportunity for us to continue to be good stewards in an environment that increasingly puts stress on this resource," said Mr. Chiasson. "One of the most important elements of this plan is the fact that the management committee is comprised of people who live here, work here, and use this river system every day."

"It is our hope this will enhance the economic opportunities in our community as it raises the profile of our scenic surroundings," said A.J. MacDougall, Warden of the Municipality of the County of Inverness. "Our council supports this designation and we wish the management committee and the community of Margaree the very best."

A formal ceremony to mark the designation of the Margaree-Lake Ainslie River as a Canadian Heritage River will be held later this year.