New Conservation Fee Contributes to Fish Habitat

AGRICULTURE/FISHERIES--New Conservation Fee Contributes to Fish Habitat

Nova Scotia anglers will contribute directly to the province's recreational fishery through a new Sportfish Habitat Fund. The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries is introducing the fund and a $5 habitat fee on fishing licences for the 2005 angling season.

"This new fee allows anglers to share in the restoration and protection of fish habitats, and helps to sustain a healthy sport fishery," said Chris d'Entremont, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries. "Community volunteers carry out most of the project work and this fund will provide them with money to continue their excellent work."

The fee will be part of general and salmon fishing licences. However, seniors 65 years and older do not have to pay the $5 fee when they acquire general fishing licences. The primary goal of the fund will be to support the conservation and enhancement of fish habitats and to improve public access to resources.

Through the Sportfish Habitat Fund, projects will be funded up to 50 per cent of the total project cost. An advisory committee will be established to review all project proposals and they will recommend to the minister which projects to approve. The committee will consist of a representative from the Nova Scotia Salmon Association, the Nova Scotia Federation of Anglers and Hunters, Trout Nova Scotia and the Canadian Association of Smallmouth Anglers. A staff person from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries will also be on the committee.

The four provincial angling organizations requested the conservation initiative and are partners in the establishment of the new sportfish fund.