February 15, 2022
For immediate release
Ten years after launching, the Elgin Clean Water Program is celebrating the completion of over 264 projects that improve water quality and wildlife habitat across Elgin County. The program, which began in 2012 is supported annually by the County of Elgin as well as long time funder, the Green Lane Community Trust Fund. “The Elgin Clean Water Program was designed to provide funding to assist landowners interested in undertaking stewardship projects on their own lands,” says program coordinator Betsy McClure. “It’s a partnership formula that works.”
Over $725,000 in program funding has been provided to projects such as wetland creation, erosion control, tallgrass prairie planting and livestock fencing with total project costs exceeding $3 million. For every dollar spent by the Elgin Clean Water Program, landowners are more than matching with contributions of their own cash or in-kind time or equipment. “That represents a massive investment in green infrastructure,” said Mary French, Warden of Elgin County and a member of the Review Committee for the program. “It also supports the local economy.”
The program is administered by the Kettle Creek Conservation Authority but is delivered locally by all four conservation authorities that have part of their watersheds in Elgin County – Lower Thames Valley, Kettle Creek, Catfish Creek and Long Point Region. “CA staff support landowners in developing and implementing their projects as well as helping to secure additional funding for landowners through organizations such as Ducks Unlimited, Elgin Stewardship Council or ALUS Elgin,” said program coordinator Betsy McClure.
Everyone benefits when water quality is improved. ECWP projects will help ensure a safe, secure water supply, a healthy aquatic ecosystem, increased recreational opportunities and sustainable agricultural operations. “We look forward to continuing to work with Elgin County landowners to help achieve that goal,” said McClure.
Applications are now being accepted for 2022 projects. For more information on the Elgin Clean Water Program, please contact your local conservation authority or visit www.elgincleanwater.ca.
-30-
For more information:
Betsy McClure
519-631-1270 x229
betsy@kettlecreekconservation.on.ca
