Feds announce funding to save local species

GEORGIAN BAY, ON – Millions of species across the world are facing extinction and the Canadian government is making a big investment to make sure local animals stick round.

Environment and Climate Change Minister, Catherine McKenna, announced up to $7.6 million will be put towards 52 environment projects across the country this year.

The Land Between bioregion, which includes almost 3 million hectares from Georgian Bay to the Ottawa Valley, is included on the list.

According to a release from the feds, the project will help 57 at-risk species locally. They include the little brown bat, the eastern (Algonquin) wolf, and the golden-winged warbler, just to name a few.

“Canadians cherish nature: It is fundamental to our identity,” McKenna said in the release. “In communities across the country, Canadians are stepping up to ensure the places they love are protected for future generations.”

“Since 2015, we have worked toward doubling Canada’s protected nature. We’re investing in effective and practical projects that protect and recover species at risk to ensure their survival and make sure our children and grandchildren can experience their wonder.”

Details on other projects will be released over the coming months, as agreements with local partners are finalized.

According to the release, the UN said almost one million species are at risk of extinction within decades. It added the Government of Canada has been working toward doubling the amount of protected nature across lands and oceans since 2015.