2018-2019 Annual Report, Wildlife Habitat Canada

Page 1

WILDLIFE HABITAT CANADA

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT

CONSERVE. ENHANCE. RESTORE.


About Wildlife Habitat Canada

We envision a future where Canadians share a conservation ethic that recognizes the

fundamental

importance

of

wildlife

habitats that are abundant, rich and support biodiversity.

OBJECTIVES: 

Provide a funding mechanism for wildlife habitat conservation programs in Canada

Conserve, restore and enhance wildlife habitat in order to retain the diversity, distribution and abundance of wildlife.

Foster coordination and leadership in the conservation community.

Promote the conservation contributions of waterfowl hunters and encourage waterfowl hunting participation.

Wildlife Habitat Canada 2039 Robertson Road, Suite 247, Ottawa, ON K2H 8R2

Phone: 613-722-2090 Email: admin@whc.org

Toll Free: 1-800-669-7919 Website: www.whc.org

Cover Image: 2018 Canadian Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamp Image, “Autumn Colours—Wood Duck” by Pierre Girard.

Charitable Registration Number: 11929 8131 RR0001 All donations to WHC are tax deductible.


Table of Contents

CREDIT: Delta Waterfowl

CREDIT: Andrew Rochon

4

Messages from the Chair

6

Canadian Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamps and Limited Edition Prints

8

Conservation Edition Prints

9

Fundraising

10

#WHCStampMeans

12

Read All About It!

13

Edible Harvests

14

Supporting a New Generation of Hunters

15

Highlight of Accomplishments: Grant Program

16

Canadian Habitat Joint Ventures

18

WHC Supported Conservation Projects

42

Grant Program Performance Indicators

44

Financial Summary 2018-2019

48

Our Supporters and Partners

49

The Need for a Stamp Increase

50

Staff

51

Board of Directors

CREDIT: Andrew Rochon

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 3


Messages from the Chair In my final message to you as the Chair of Wildlife Habitat Canada’s Board of Directors, I would like to talk about where we are as an organization, what we’ve done, where we are going—and how we all need to work together to get there. WHC works under the auspices of Environment Canada and Climate Change (ECCC) as an independent organization. Thanks to ECCC, this year is our 35th administering the “Habitat Conservation Stamp Initiative.” Canadian duck stamps are purchased by all migratory waterfowl hunters and collectors, the proceeds of which go to the protection, enhancement and restoration of wetland and wildlife habitat across Canada. To date, over $50 million has been raised by the Stamp program. We fund local grassroots groups like the SNB Wood Co-operative Ltd. in New Brunswick, as well as national conservation organizations, such as Delta Waterfowl and Ducks Unlimited Canada.

Wm. Michael Phippen Outgoing Chair Wildlife Habitat Canada Board of Directors

Our Board Members are all committed conservationists. We want our “green space” enhanced to allow all Canadians to enjoy now, and for future generations. During my 7 year tenure on this Board, approximately 250 different programs have been funded that have done just that. The State of Canada’s Birds 2019 confirms that over the past 50 years, waterfowl populations have recovered by 150%, and that our conservation partnerships have worked very well. The cost of the Canadian duck stamp, a key conservation partnership, has remained the same since 1991. It is time for a price increase so that WHC can keep making this positive impact. Together, we need to help our government realize this need. It has been an honour and privilege to serve WHC over the past 7 years. I’ve enjoyed watching Wildlife Habitat Canada grow and being a part of it. We’ve increased our efforts to grow, restore, and enhance Canada’s wetlands. It is my hope to be able to support this venerable organization in the future.

Respectfully submitted,

“Our Duck Stamp symbolizes this tradition and has become for me, an annual rite of passage, as one of the first things we do to ready ourselves for the upcoming hunting season. It’s a permanent reminder that conserving the resource is an important part of what we do.” - W.M. Phippen

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“Every year I purchase a duck stamp, a small piece of Canadian art that is one of the best ways for a conservationist to put money towards habitat for wildlife. Wildlife to me is all living things. Some are hunted, some not. The work the stamp accomplishes can be seen in every province. The habitats created or restored are a joy to spend time in.� - D. L. Harris

Michael Phippen has been a part of WHC for the last 7 years, and his hard work and leadership have allowed us to grow as an organization. As the incoming Chair, I am excited about maintaining the growth. On our 35th Stamp anniversary, we are embarking on an exciting new partnership initiative. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has begun a four-year program in federal land protection called the Natural Heritage Conservation Program. This program is designed to help Canada meet its goal of protecting 17 percent of our total land base for perpetuity, and WHC will play a critical role in its success. Canadians from coast to coast are aware of special areas that merit protection, including areas of pristine and unique habitats that are home to threatened and endangered species. In co-operation with the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC), provincial and regional land trusts with private land that deserves protection will put together a plan of purchase. WHC will serve as a national broker to help make this a reality. Our successes with the Habitat Conservation Stamp grant program make us the ideal partner for the NCC in this new visionary project. In a way, this initiative takes us back to our roots. In the early years, WHC worked closely with partners to purchase properties for habitat conservation purposes. Over time, we began to specialize in habitat enhancement, research, and conservation networking projects. Land acquisition was undertaken by groups like land trusts who specialize in that important activity. They often became the beneficiaries of the Habitat Conservation Stamp grant funding, allowing them to enhance or better understand their properties and the habitats and organisms living in them.

David Lee Harris Incoming Chair Wildlife Habitat Canada Board of Directors

Getting to know and work with a large number of Canada’s land trusts is a compelling opportunity for WHC to broaden the type of conservation projects that we support. At the same time, we will be meeting and working with new partners who can help us envision a future where Canadians share a conservation ethic that recognizes the fundamental importance of wildlife habitats that are abundant, rich and support biodiversity.

Yours in conservation,

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 5


Canadian Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamps & Limited Edition Prints Every year the winner of Wildlife Habitat Canada’s art competition has their painting re-created on the Canadian Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamp and Print. The Stamp is affixed to the Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit for waterfowl hunters and is also sold to collectors and art enthusiasts to generate funds for our grant program.

Aix sponsa, also known as the Wood Duck, is one of the most colourful ducks found in North America. Their bright plumage and tasty meat make them one of the most sought after species of waterfowl!

2018 winning artist, Pierre Girard, is no stranger to WHC’s Stamp Program.

“Autumn Colours—Wood Duck,” featured on the 2018 Stamp and Print.

Pierre first won the art competition in 2010 with his rendition of the Green-winged Teal. Pierre submits a painting most years and is always a contender for first place. He has many prints available on his website and Facebook. Be sure to check out his incredibly realistic fish and wildlife paintings. Inspired by the beautiful landscapes and contrasting colours, he paints animal life with the sole objective of reproducing every movement and every glance. In his paintings, he places a great deal of importance on habitat and the environment.

Canadian Artist, Pierre Girard https://galeriearchambault.ca/pierre-girard/

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The 2019 Winning Painting The Canadian Duck Stamp celebrates its 35th anniversary in 2019 and the aristocrat of ducks, the regal Canvasback was chosen to grace this commemorative stamp. 29 entries were submitted to our panel of judges and after intense deliberation they decided on the winner:

Claude Thivierge.

“Blue - Canvasback,” featured on the 2019 Stamp and Print.

Claude is a multi-talented international artist. As a wildlife painter and illustrator, his talent is spread across all four corners of the globe. Claude has been awarded many prizes for his magnificent work, Quebec Artist of the Year for Ducks Unlimited Canada; two-time winner of Wildlife Habitat Canada’s Canadian Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamp, and the Quebec Wildlife Foundation Stamp. “Through my eyes, nature is wonderful and perfect,” says Claude. His artistic vision embodies his deep respect for nature. Claude is part of an International Association of Artists, called Artists for Conservation (AFC), which is involved in the conservation of species and biodiversity.

Canadian Artist, Claude Thivierge www.claudethiviergeartiste.com

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 7


Conservation Edition Prints

Donating in the name of conservation Every

year,

WHC

donates

Conservation

Edition Prints in support of hunter education and conservation fundraising events across

Canada. We provide these timeless art pieces for events such as banquets, auctions, golf tournaments, youth education events, and raffles.

WHC Conservation Edition Print Recipients Port Moody Ecological Society

pêcheurs de la Gaspésie Îles-de-la-Madeleine

Federation Quebecosie des chasseurs et pêcheurs de la Gaspésie Îles-de-la-Madeleine

Luther Marsh Hunting Retriever Club

Fédération Québécoise des chasseurs et pêcheurs de la Mauricie Envirothon Fédération Québécoise des chasseurs et WHC is grateful for the support of so many talented artists who make the conservation Stamps and Prints what they are.

Thank you to all of the artists who have submitted their work to WHC!

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 8

Association of Professional Biology Delta Waterfowl Foundation


Fundraising Available Now!

Our custom WHC limited edition hats come in two styles: 

Khaki and digital camo for the avid hunter out there; or,

Denim and tobacco suede for the more casual look, perfect for birders!

Order yours today at: www.whc.org/store As of 2019, we will be including out new WHC “Stamp” sticker with the purchase of any WHC products. The sticker will also be included when you purchase your MGBH permit from ECCC online and select to have the physical stamp sent! Show your support, and proudly display your WHC sticker on your vehicle!

Sustainable Outdoors Co. In 2018, WHC also partnered up with outdoor clothing company, Sustainable Outdoors Co. (SOC). SOC supports conservation initiatives through its sales. As the featured charity in the first months of 2019, WHC received a portion of the proceeds from sales during this time period towards its conservation programs. sustainableoutdoorsco.com

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 9


#WHCstampmeans Campaign To continue drawing attention to the important

role of the Stamp and how it supports conservation efforts, we brought back the #whcstampmeans social media campaign in 2018-2019. We encouraged our grantees, hunters, birders, and other conservationists to share photos of themselves with their Stamp and a brief note about what it means to them. Thank you to everyone that participated! We received an enthusiastic response and were pleased to continue to raise awareness about the Stamp.

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 10


Whether you are a hunter, birder, outdoor enthusiast or simply want to help preserve our natural resources for future generations, make a contribution today by purchasing a Canadian Duck Stamp!

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 11


Read all about it! Be sure to keep an eye out for articles about the Stamp/WHC in many different publications:

Canadian Outdoorsman magazine

Cree Hunters and Trappers magazine

The Farmer’s Almanac

The Conservator

Canadian Stamp News

...and more!

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 12


Edible Harvests

For more recipes and tons of other great content, subscribe to Ontario Out of Doors magazine today! www.oodmag.com

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 13


Supporting a New Generation of Hunters Wildlife Habitat Canada supports youth hunter education programs and mentored hunt activities to foster a new generation of waterfowl hunters. Through a variety of different programs across the country, WHC and its partners are committed to recruiting, mentoring, and educating the next generation of waterfowl hunters. These programs teach youth hunters about the importance of firearm safety, the tools used for hunting, and how to clean and prepare your harvest.

These new hunters will be the face of conservation in the years to come.

Top left and right: WHC-funded project, “Connecting Women to Bottom left and right: WHC-funded project, “Introduction to Waterfowl Wildlife.” Trout Unlimited Canada-Prince Edward County Hunting Activities.” Héritage faune. Chapter.

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 14


Highlight of Accomplishments: Grant Program

$1.28 million in grant funding raised

$4.4 million in additional partner funds... a substantial return on investment!

$1.25 million of WHC grant funds contributed to NAWMP*

priorities and leveraged additional funds at a rate of 3.4 : 1 for the conservation and preservation of waterfowl. * North American Waterfowl Management Plan

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 15


Canadian Habitat Joint Ventures

Habitat Joint Ventures integrate planning, science, governance, achieve

partnerships,

NAWMP

(North

and

management

American

to

Waterfowl

Management Plan) goals in Canada through a programmatic approach.

Joint Venture partners actively research, monitor and evaluate waterfowl populations and deliver habitat conservation programs at a regional level.

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 16


Canadian Habitat Joint Ventures Pacific Birds Habitat Joint Venture (PBHJV) Includes portions of British Columbia, Alaska, Washington, Oregon, California and Hawaii. The British Columbia coastline is a complex of inlets, bays, islands, straits and fjords rising to a diversity of near-shore, inter-tidal and forested habitats. There are over 440 estuaries with tidal wetlands and adjacent floodplain habitats. Over 1 million waterfowl nest along British Columbia’s coastline and another 400,000 in its estuaries. Agricultural areas in the region also provide significant habitat and food supply for migrating and wintering waterfowl.

www.pacificbirds.org

The Canadian Intermountain Joint Venture (CIJV) An area of 123.5 million acres (50 million hectares) in the central/ southern interior of British Columbia and the eastern Rocky Mountains in Alberta. The CIJV encompasses a diverse landscape of valleys and mountains with grasslands, dry and moist coniferous forests, riparian areas and wetlands, alpine tundra, and pocket desert. Twenty-four waterfowl species breed in the CIJV with an estimated population of 1.45 million birds. This represents 70% of B.C.’s and roughly 4% of Canada’s breeding waterfowl population.

www.cijv.ca

The Prairie Habitat Joint Venture (PHJV) Encompasses 158.4 million acres (64.1 million hectares) in the prairie and aspen parklands of Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and the Peace-Parkland Region of British Columbia. The Western Boreal Forest program also falls under the PHJV including parts of British Columbia, the Prairie Provinces, and the Yukon and Northwest Territories. The PHJV covers one of the most productive areas for waterfowl in the world. Over half of North America's mid-continent ducks breed within this region.

www.phjv.ca

The Eastern Habitat Joint Venture (EHJV) Contains 780 million acres (315 million hectares) in Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador. The EHJV supports 30% of Canada’s wetlands, including coastal bays and salt marshes, lakeshore marshes, floodplain wetlands, and boreal forest wetlands. The EHJV supports a significant portion of the continental populations of American Black Duck, Mallard, Ring-necked Duck, Common Goldeneye, Common Eider (3 races), Green-winged Teal, and Canada Goose (5 populations).

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 17

www.ehjv.ca


British Columbia Chilcotin Lake Enhancement The Nature Trust of British Columbia $24,500 Grant The Chilcotin Lake Enhancement Project installed protective fencing around Chilcotin Lake, an important wetland complex in the Chilcotin Plateau. This project will allow for the restoration and enhancement of wetland and upland features, benefiting waterfowl, wildlife, and people. CREDIT: The Nature Trust of British Columbia

Project Achievements: 

 

Installed 4.8 km of perimeter fencing. Protected 1,974 acres of wetland and associated upland habitat. Communicated project and conservation area attributes to neighbouring land owners and land managers.

The Boundary Bay Spartina Eradication Project Ducks Unlimited Canada $40,000 Grant The British Columbia Spartina Working Group (BC SWG) is leading the coordination and delivery of the invasive Spartina eradication program to preserve valuable estuarine habitat needed for waterfowl and fish.

Project Achievements: 

4,262 acres of intertidal and estuarine habitat were surveyed for invasive Spartina.

Treated Spartina plants in identified project area, impacting 1,235 acres of habitat.

Engaged 35+ youth in waterfowl conservation activities. CREDIT: Ducks Unlimited Canada

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 18


British Columbia Wetland on Wheels 2018-2019: Accelerating Conservation & Restoration BC Wildlife Federation $40,000 Grant Through this program, the BC Wildlife Federation delivered 8 stewardship workshops to 148 participants, completed restoration at 5 sites (total of 6.11 acres), and participated in 6 outreach events, reaching an additional 1,150 people across British Columbia.

Trained 148 stewards at wetland workshops.

Educated 1150 people at outreach events.

Restored 6.11 acres of habitat.

CREDIT: BC Wildlife Federation

CREDIT: BC Wildlife Federation

Project Achievements:

BCWF Youth Program 2018-2019 BC Wildlife Federation $15,000 Grant This program aimed to recruit a new generation of hunters, anglers, outdoor recreationalists, and conservation-minded citizens. Project Achievements: 

Ran four, five day camps, which engaged 122 campers, 99 families, and 77 fish and game club volunteers.

Completed 6 conservation projects.

Partnered with 37 different organizations across BC and Canada.

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 19


British Columbia Wetland Habitat Conservation, Restoration, and Enhancement on the Sunshine Coast, British Columbia (Year 1 of a 2 year project)

Sunshine Coast Wildlife Project $40,000 Grant This project conserved, restored, and enhanced wetland and upland habitat for waterfowl and other wildlife by working with community groups, local schools, private landowners, First Nations, and local, regional and provincial government. Project Achievements: 

Excavated three wetland ponds in Wilson Creek forest, restoring 3 acres.

Improved 75 acres of wetland by building and installing duck nest boxes and naturalizing shorelines.

Surveyed more than 50 wetlands to assess waterfowl and other wildlife and identify priority sites for habitat conservation.

CREDITS: Sunshine Coast Wildlife Project

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 20


Alberta AHEIA's Youth Camps and Outdoor Youth Seminar Alberta Hunter Education Instructors’ Association $40,000 Grant The Youth Hunter Education Camps and Outdoor Youth Seminar have targeted and attracted youth to these activities which in turn are providing introductory opportunities to become hunters, anglers, and responsible outdoorsmen and women. Project Achievements:

CREDIT: AHEIA

295 youth attended multiple days at the Youth Camps and Outdoor Youth Seminar in 2018.

Most youth purchased a Wildlife Identification Number (WIN) card, which is the first step in applying for hunting licenses when of hunting age.

There is great success in passing the final tests for both the Hunter Education, Fishing Education, and Canadian Firearms Safety Programs.

“The future of hunting and fishing in Alberta lies with our youth. If the youth of today don’t take an interest in these outdoor activities then the number of hunters and fishermen will decline.” -AHEIA

AHEIA's 25th Annual Outdoor Women’s Program Alberta Hunter Education Instructors’ Association $25,000 Grant The Outdoor Women's Program continues to be an amazing opportunity for women to gather together and learn to be safe, confident, and comfortable in the outdoors. It is through gaining knowledge about wildlife, waterfowl and their habitats, and mastering outdoor skills that women truly begin to learn how to constructively aid in the management and care of our natural wildlife and waterfowl resources. Project Achievements: 

Participants gained skills necessary for a safe & successful hunting experience.

Participants learned wise utilization of wildlife resources through conservation.

After attending the OWP, many of the participants purchased a Hunting License. CREDIT: AHEIA

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 21


Alberta Provincial Hunting Day The Alberta Hunter Education Instructors’ Association $7,000 Grant The Provincial Hunting Day initiatives held on September 22, 2018 introduced and encouraged ongoing participation in the enjoyment and skills necessary for a safe and successful waterfowl hunting experience for youth and novice hunters. Project Achievements:   

300 youth and novices participated in AHEIA's Provincial Hunting Day. Shotgun shooting at the trap range was enjoyed by all who attended. The link between hunting licenses, wildlife stamp sales and conservation management was explained to those attending.

CREDIT: AHEIA

Waterfowl Nest Success in the Western Boreal Forest: Does Industrial Development Alter Predation? University of Waterloo, Faculty of Environment, School of Environment, Resources, and Sustainability $50,000 Grant The Boreal Forest is the second most important duck breeding area on the continent, but little information is available as to where they nest and associated predators. This project aimed to fill this knowledge gap by investigating the nest-habitat associations of ducks, identifying nest predators, and understanding how human land use influences predator-prey interactions. Project Achievements:   

Identified and described previously unknown nest-site associations of multiple duck species in the Boreal Forest. Identified and described duck nest predator communities. Evaluated the relationship between industrial development, predators, and duck nest success. CREDIT: University of Waterloo

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 22


Saskatchewan Saskatchewan Breeding Bird Atlas - A Public-Private Partnership for Conservation (Year 1 of a 2 year project)

Bird Studies Canada $25,000 Grant

 

 

350 Atlas participants were engaged in the project. 1490 atlas squares reporting sampling were completed. 27,000 observations of 263 species were made. 4,868 point counts completed.

CREDIT: Bird Studies Canada

A Breeding Bird Atlas is a scientifically-designed project to assess the status, distribution, and abundance of all breeding bird species within a defined area. Atlas data support sound environmental decisions by both the industrial sector and conservation organizations; Atlas data are put to work to make better-informed decisions that minimize impacts to biodiversity. Project Achievements:

Taking Action for Prairie Program

Prairie Conservation Action Plan $3,000 Grant Taking Action For Prairie Program aims to increase awareness and appreciation of the native prairie and wetland ecosystem and its conservation through the development and implementation of an Action Plan by youth students after program delivery. Project Achievements: 

Increased awareness and appreciation of the native prairie and wetland ecosystem conservation in 106 grade 6 and 8 students.

Students developed action plans, which included campaigns for reducing water consumption, raising awareness about the impact of invasive species, and raising awareness on the importance of conserving native prairies and wetlands for species at risks.

CREDIT: Prairie Conservation Action Plan

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 23


Manitoba Manitoba Mentored Hunt Management, Growth and Evaluation Manitoba Wildlife Federation (MWF) $20,000 Grant The Manitoba Mentored Hunt Program is a provincial initiative geared towards hunter recruitment and retention to reverse the declining population of hunters in Manitoba. Events provide new hunters with one-on-one training and mentorship in the areas of safe gun handling, target practice, the importance of ethics and conservation, hunting techniques, wild game cleaning, and wild game cooking. Project Achievements:   

Safely and successfully ran 23 Waterfowl, Deer, Turkey, and Pheasant mentored hunts in the province. Created MWF’s GO Hunt – Hunting Recruitment Program Manual. Invested resources into developing new how-to videos pertaining to shotgun training, waterfowl cleaning, cooking, waterfowl calling, and decoy demonstrations.

Becoming an Outdoors-Woman and Beyond Manitoba Wildlife Federation (MWF) $20,000 Grant This program provides an exciting, engaging, and empowering opportunity for women to learn about and take part in trying new outdoors, hunting, and shooting workshops. Project Achievements: 

Enabled women to pursue their outdoors passions in a positive learning environment.

Engaged women in hunting, shooting, and outdoors activities.

Provided the opportunity to gain in-field and hunting experience.

CREDITS: Manitoba Wildlife Federation

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 24


Manitoba Waterfowl Population Enhancement Project Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation $80,000 Grant Through the financial support of hunters and conservation organizations across North America, the Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation was able to delivery waterfowl-focussed programming on 2,755 acres of breeding habitat in Manitoba. This work not only provided safer nesting locations for mallards, but also protected 859 acres of natural breeding habitat, forever. Project Achievements:    

CREDITS: Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation

Perpetually protected 858.8 acres of wetland and upland habitat. Maintained 1,734 artificial nesting structures. Installed 80 new nesting structures. Restored 82 acres of drained wetlands.

Ducks Unlimited Canada Manitoba Project Rebuilds 2018 Ducks Unlimited Canada $70,000 Grant The water control structure rebuilds address long term wetland securement and will conserve and protect 659 acres of wetlands, ensuring high-density waterfowl wetlands continue to provide associated ecological goods and services benefits to society.

Project Achievements: 

Conserved 659 wetland acres across Southern Manitoba, all of which are in high decision support system waterfowl areas. Secured wetland acres for at least 30 years. CREDIT: Ducks Unlimited Canada

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 25


Ontario Wetland Restoration Program—Invasive Species Control Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority $40,000 Grant This project enhanced the network of restored and existing wetlands for migratory species. By repairing the fragmented landscape, the LTVCA is beginning to see more fluent migration and improved water quality for the Lake Erie Basin.

Project Achievements:   

60+ acres of increased migratory bird, vegetative, animal, and reptile species populations. Progression of ecosystems and corridor linkage throughout the Lower Thames Valley. Mitigation and control of invasive Phragmites Australis on 10 acres of wildlife habitat.

CREDIT: Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority

St. Clair/Sydenham River Waterfowl Habitat Improvement Initiative Rural Lambton Stewardship Network $60,000 Grant The St. Clair/Sydenham River Waterfowl Habitat Improvement Initiative successfully created 10 acres of waterfowl habitat on 7 properties. Pollinator and grassland bird habitats were implemented on 7 properties resulting in 30 acres of native prairie. One coastal wetland was targeted and 10 acres of non-native Phragmites was eradicated. Project Achievements:   

10 acres of land was retired and converted into wetland habitat on 6 properties. 30 acres of locally grown native tallgrass prairie was established on 7 properties. 10 acres of non-native Phragmites were treated at one large coastal wetland site.

CREDIT: Rural Lambton Stewardship Network

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 26


Ontario Eradication and Outreach of Water Soldier (Stratiotes Aloides) in the Trent Severn Waterway Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters $19,988 Grant The Water Soldier Working Group monitors more than 30 miles of the Trent Severn Waterway annually by boat to map the extent and locations of water soldier and document the plant community.

Why Wetlands? Credit Valley Conservation Foundation $22,549 Grant “Why Wetlands?” is an investigative look into wetlands through multimedia and environmental inquiry. CVC created a curriculumbased video, an in-class activity, and hosted field trips to a wetland for elementary students to increase their knowledge and hands-on experience in wetland conservation.

(Results compared to previous year’s “pretreatment” maps to assess effectiveness of treatment).

Project Achievements:   

78% reduction of water soldier populations on Lake Seymour. 48% reduction of water soldier populations on Crowe Bay. All known populations of water soldier in Ontario were treated in 2018.

CREDIT: Credit Valley Conservation Foundation

CREDIT: Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 27

Project Achievements:  1046 students and approximately 56 teachers engaged and educated about:  Why wetlands are important for ducks, other animals and people;  Importance of wetlands, threats facing wetlands, and their importance for people historically and today – including as hunting sites for waterfowl;  Students and teachers participated in a 1.5 hour guided tour of at Terra Cotta Conservation Area.


Ontario Using and Improving the Great Lakes Marsh Monitoring Program to Meet OEHJV and NAWMP Marsh Bird Priorities (Year 1 of a 2 year project) Bird Studies Canada $25,000 Grant Bird Studies Canada’s Great Lakes Marsh Monitoring Program assists the Ontario Eastern Habitat Joint Venture in assessing the success of its wetland restoration work, particularly for wetland-associated birds and migratory game birds. Project Achievements:   

Distribution maps of priority locations for wetland restoration and protection to conserve marsh-breeding bird species in southern Ontario were developed. Findings provide strong evidence that control of non-native invasive Phragmites increases populations of marsh-breeding bird species. Engaged hundreds of members of the public in wetland bird conservation and monitoring, and garnered support for OEHJV and NAWMP objectives among new target audiences.

Restoring Critically Impaired Wetlands in the Great Lakes Basin through Invasive Phragmites Control Nature Conservancy of Canada-Ontario $25,000 Grant Phragmites populations in early and advanced stages were controlled, protecting critical waterfowl and wildlife habitats at key breeding, nesting, and staging areas across Ontario. Project Achievements:   

58.9 acres of Phragmites eliminated in important wetland habitats. Over 50 acres of Phragmites cut or rolled and/or prescribed burned. Over 200 members of the public engaged and informed regarding Phragmites management at information sessions and workdays. CREDIT: The Nature Conservancy of Canada

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 28


Ontario Greenwing Pool Restoration—Hullett Marsh Ducks Unlimited Canada $70,000 Grant Extreme weather events can result in rapidly changing floodwaters within the South Maitland River, which have historically wreaked havoc on the infrastructure associated with the Hullett Marsh Greenwing Pool. Complex repair work was completed at the Greenwing Pool that will stabilize water levels in the marsh and prevent flood damage to ensure the wetland continues to provide valuable habitat for waterfowl and wetland-dependent wildlife. Project Achievements: 

Installed new flap gate to keep floodwaters out of the marsh.

Repaired 50 meter fragile section of dyke that had been breached with new, robust materials.

Rebuilt, re-sloped, and re-cored 600 meters of dyke.

Re-graded vehicle ruts.

CREDITS: Ducks Unlimited Canada

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 29


Québec Introduction to Waterfowl Hunting Activities—2018 Héritage faune $15,000 Grant This project allowed hunting associations and waterfowl groups to develop and enhance waterfowl hunting activities with the next generation, while raising participants' awareness of the importance of wetland habitat. Project Achievements: Participants completed a hunter safety and wildlife conservation course.

Participants observed waterfowl and its habitat.

Participants were introduced to waterfowl hunting with qualified mentors and took part in game tasting.

CREDIT: Héritage faune

Conservation of the St. Lawrence Coastal Habitats Nature Conservancy of Canada-Quebec $25,000 Grant Through stewardship and awareness activities, this project has helped to promote the conservation of coastal habitats by involving private landowners, local partners, volunteers, hunters, and other land

users in concrete actions aimed short-term results for the protection of their environment. Project Achievements: 

Meetings and discussions with 23 owners for the legal protection of more than 400 hectares of wetlands and coastal areas.

Monitored the ecological integrity of more than 200 hectares of protected wetlands and coastal areas.

Developed 6 public awareness tools on the importance of coastal habitats and the protection of associated species. CREDIT: The Nature Conservancy of Canada

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 30


Québec Waterfowl Hunting Exhibit Organisme des bassins versants de la Haute-Côte-Nord (OBVHCN) $3,510 Grant This project involved holding an event that promoted waterfowl hunting on the territory of Haute-CôteNord, to raise participants' awareness and respect of the environment. Kiosks, workshops, and

lectures were offered to visitors. Project Achievements: 

Provided new hunters with information on the basics of hunting and the necessary equipment.

Trained participants to identify ducks present in Haute-Côte-Nord and informed them about nesting and wintering areas.

Educated participants about the rules and regulations of waterfowl hunting.

CREDIT: Organisme des bassins versants de la Haute-Côte-Nord

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 31


Québec Restoration of Segment 2 of the SaintBarthélemy Wildlife Management Ducks Unlimited Canada $50,000 Grant

Protecting and Enhancing the Biodiversity of Forested Wetlands on Private Lands EHJV, Southern Quebec, 2018-2019

Ducks Unlimited Canada and its part-

Fondation de la faune du Québec $80,000 Grant

ners came to the rescue of Lake Saint-Pierre. Segment 3 has undergone a variety of restoration

efforts since 2015 that will provide optimal conditions for waterfowl and yellow perch.

This project promoted the private stewardship of several wetlands of interest to waterfowl in

Project Achievements:

southern Quebec.

Improved access to associated with the site.

water

and

Reduced sediment discharge to streams.

Optimized habitat for wildlife.

fish

Project Achievements: 

80 sites of interest have been retained on a voluntary basis.

1280 hectares of wetlands were protected.

120 landowners committed to preserving their wetlands.

CREDITS: Ducks Unlimited Canada CREDITS: Fondation de la faune du Québec

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 32


New Brunswick Watershed Restoration through Landowner Stewardship Nashwaak Watershed Association Inc. $15,000 Grant This project improved the environment and built a stronger Landowner Conservation Program, inspiring community members to be stewards of their own shorelines. Project Achievements: 

11 landowners in the Nashwaak watershed completed native species plantings.

672 native floodplain trees were planted.

1,968 shoreline willows were planted. CREDIT: Nashwaak Watershed Association

Hen House Installations and Restoration of Wood Duck Habitat on Private Lands in Southern New Brunswick SNB Wood Co-operative Ltd. $10,000 Grant The purpose of this project was to improve the quality and quantity of productive duck nesting sites (and reduce predation) on private lands throughout southern New Brunswick. Project Achievements: 

Produced and installed 50 hen houses and 50 wood duck boxes.

Engaged 30 private landowners in hen house installations and 25 private landowners in Wood duck habitat restoration.

Educated landowners and the community on the benefits of hen houses.

Planted 1000 red, white, and bur oak trees. CREDIT: SNB Wood Co-operative Ltd.

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 33


Nova Scotia Nova Scotia Eastern Habitat Joint Venture (NS-EHJV) Wetland Stewardship Program

Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources - Wildlife Division $50,000 Grant The NS-EHJV Wetland Stewardship Program facilitates partnerships to improve the conservation, restoration and enhancement of wetland habitat and biodiversity within Nova Scotia. A key program area is working with farmers and agricultural support workers in the agricultural landscape.

Project Achievements: 

9 Agricultural Biodiversity Conservation (ABC) Plans were completed, covering 2,130 acres of habitat.

4 Treasured Wetlands had signage erected, photo posts, and online presence.

Prepared a draft Municipal Habitat Conservation and Stewardship Plan for Halifax Regional Municipality, Nova Scotia.

Held a saltmarsh seminar at Dalhousie University.

CREDITS: Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources—Wildlife Division

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 34


Prince Edward Island Connecting Women to Wildlife Trout Unlimited Canada - Prince County Chapter $3,560 Grant This aim of this project was to introduce women to hunting, and by extension, connect them with wildlife and conservation. The project built on the training component of a 2017-2018 project and focused primarily on mentored hunting opportunities.

Project Achievements: 

Offered mentored hunting opportunities.

Hosted a field day that included an introduction to activities such

as skeet shooting, duck calling, waterfowl identification, etc. 

Planned a field to table event to demonstrate cleaning and cooking game after a hunt.

Having more hunters has long-term impacts: additional people become active in hunting and support wetland and habitat conservation through

CREDITS: Trout Unlimited Canada– Prince County Chapter

direct contributions of money and time.

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 35


Newfoundland and Labrador Newfoundland and Labrador Wetlands and Coastal Habitat Conservation and Stewardship

Stewardship Association of Municipalities Inc. $45,000 Grant This project engaged a number of municipal councils in the signing of new or expanded municipal stewardship agreements, implemented a variety of education and outreach activities and events and achieved significant progress in completing a digitally mapped inventory, CREDITS: Stewardship Association of Municipalities Inc.

assessment and prioritization of significant estuaries and beaches found along the province’s coastline. Project Achievements: 

7 municipal councils were engaged in habitat conservation via formal stewardship agreements, securing 388 acres of habitat.

12 municipalities (441 individuals) were engaged in education and habitat enhancement activities.

157 important coastal estuaries, beach and dune sites were mapped and documented for future conservation efforts.

A Stewardship Agreement represents a formal public commitment by a community, individual, the Stewardship Association of Municipalities Inc. and the province, to act together over the long-term to conserve habitat for wildlife. Since 1993, thirty-nine municipalities in the province have become involved through the signing of Municipal Habitat Stewardship Agreements securing over 41,000 acres of wildlife habitat, primarily wetlands.

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 36


Newfoundland and Labrador Murre Conservation Fund Murre hunting is a traditional activity and a part of the cultural heritage of Newfoundland and Labrador. The regulations permit only hunters from Newfoundland and Labrador to harvest Murre in Canada and only within the provincial boundaries. Since 2001, Murre hunters have been required to purchase a Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permit, which includes the Canadian Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamp. It was agreed that an associated portion of Stamp funds from Murre hunters be directed to support Murre conservation activities. The priorities of the NL Murre Conservation Fund are to fund projects that support the conservation and management of Murre populations and their habitat, and to provide funding for projects that involve the people of Newfoundland and Labrador in the conservation, management, and the sustainable harvest of Murre.

Top-down and Bottom-up Influences on Common Murres Breeding in Coastal Newfoundland: Productivity, Foraging Effort, and Impacts of Gull Predation on Breeding Common Murres University of Manitoba $10,000 Grant This study examined parental foraging effort and productivity (i.e. breeding success) of Common Murres at two colonies on the northeast Newfoundland coast, along with Great Black-backed Gull predation rates of murre eggs and chicks in the context of varying prey (capelin) biomass.

Project Achievements: 

Breeding common murres (COMU) on Funk Island (a large, offshore colony) foraged farther from the colony and over a larger area (i.e. higher foraging effort) than those on South Cabot Island (small, inshore colony).

Great black-backed gulls (GBBG) showed high individual-level variation in use of the COMU colony as a foraging site.

Gull diets primarily consisted of capelin, although some individuals appeared to specialize on COMU eggs.

Murre egg/chick predation by gulls decreased during high capelin biomass relative to low biomass, while kleptoparasitic attacks revealed the opposite trend. CREDIT: Julia Gulka

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 37


Newfoundland and Labrador Murre Conservation Fund Population Monitoring and Tracking Murres at the Gannet Islands, NL Acadia University $10,000 Grant Researchers travelled to the Gannet Islands, which hosts one of the largest common murre colonies along coastal Labrador, to assess population trends, marine habitat use, and breeding success; however, predators (polar bears and foxes) had arrived at the islands in 2018 and most birds abandoned nesting for the season. Project Achievements: 

Tracked 4 auk species to determine specific marine habitat use.

Took blood samples from birds to compare mercury levels to these same species breeding elsewhere.

Banded hundreds of birds, with population counts suggesting declines in some species, most notably: common murres. CREDIT: Acadia University

Identifying Critical Habitats for Murres throughout the Annual Cycle McGill University $10,000 Grant Tiny tracking devices were used to study the movement of Thick-billed murres year-round. Mapping was completed to illustrate the year-round hotspots for murres in the Arctic and Atlantic oceans. Project Achievements: 

 

Collected data on the year-round movements and behaviour of 31 Thick-billed murres from Coats Island, Nunavut. Mapped the distribution of Thick-billed murres throughout the year. Maps were provided to stakeholders for the planning of their Marine Protected Areas. CREDIT: McGIll University

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 38


Regional Using Nest Structures to Increase Duck Reproductive Success in Important Breeding Areas

Webinar Presentations for Native Prairie Speaker Series and Prairie’s Got the Goods Week

Delta Waterfowl Foundation $65,451 Grant

Prairie Conservation Action Plan $1,500 Grant

Delta Waterfowl’s Hen House program is the

most effective way of increasing the number of hatched mallards. With help from WHC, the Hen House program continues to grow across Canada. Project Achievements: 

Installed 135 new hen houses.

Maintained 2,895 existing hen houses.

Enhanced 4,545 acres of wetland habitat.

The above resulted in an estimated production of 6,350 additional ducks in 2019.

CREDIT: Delta Waterfowl Foundation

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 39

The Native Prairie Speaker Series is a free monthly webinar, featuring a virtual presentation by an expert guest speaker to talk about topics related to prairie conservation or species at risk. Prairie's Got the Goods is a weeklong event that brings together a variety of perspectives to showcase the benefits of the native prairie environment to the citizens of Canada. Project Achievements: 

The Native Prairie Speaker Series reached over 900 people over the year and brought new information about species at risk to almost 100 landowners and land managers.

The Prairie’s Got the Goods Week – Webinar Series reached over 530 people in 2019 and brought information about the ecological goods and services provided by the prairie ecosystems to the urban public.


Regional Impact of Climate Change on Wetland Density and Waterfowl Production in Prairie Canada

Ducks Unlimited Canada $25,000 Grant (Year 1 of a 2 year project) This project aims to understand how climate change will affect future wetland distribution in Prairie Canada and, in turn, waterfowl. Project Achievements: 

Developed a groundwater parameterization for the prairies in a land surface scheme.

Developed a prairie wetland parameterization for a land surface scheme.

Tested new methods for mapping changes in prairie wetland extent through time.

CREDIT: Devon Chubey, Ducks Unlimited Canada

CREDIT: Tye Gregg, Ducks Unlimited Canada

The Prairie Pothole Region (PPR) spans ~715 000 km2 in North America, contains millions of wetlands, and is the continent’s most productive breeding ground for waterfowl.

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 40


Regional Creating Awareness, Enhancing Opportunities, and Recruiting Hunters Across Canada

Delta Waterfowl Foundation $98,942 Grant This project used volunteers to introduce over 1,000 new hunters and supported regulation changes that provide opportunities for hunting throughout Canada.

Project Achievements: 

Hosted 39 camps, involving over 320 volunteers and 830 participants.

Held 31 mentored hunts with over 160 volunteers and 260 participants.

Promoted new hunting opportunities to federal and provincial governments.

Sent several action alerts to advise hunters of issues and opportunities to support hunting.

Helped promote PEI’s new free hunter safety course and first time license.

CREDITS: Delta Waterfowl Foundation

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT 41


Grant Program Performance Indicators As required by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), Wildlife Habitat Canada (WHC) has developed a comprehensive set of performance indicators for its competitive grant program.

What is a performance indicator? “Performance indicators are measurable results that demonstrate how a project’s objectives are met.” - Environment Canada, “Performance Indicators” (2013-07-02)

The Performance Measurement Framework (PMF) was implemented in late 2012 and revised in 2018. 2018-2019 grantees reported against WHC’s performance indicators in their Final Project Reports, with the following results:

Habitat grants provided to eligible recipients (NAWMP, other important migratory game birds): 

Funding allocation - $909,939

Networking grants provided to eligible recipients (Wetland Education, Hunter Education/Recruitment): 

Funding allocation - $340,061

NL Murre Conservation grants provided to eligible recipients: 

Funding allocation - $30,000

Projects contributing to the NAWMP are implemented: 

Percentage of funded projects addressing priority activities under NAWMP:

98% (36/39 projects) WHC invested $1.25 million in NAWMP projects, which leveraged an additional $4.25 million in additional partner funding (Government of Canada funding not counted in the calculation of leveraged funds).

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT WILDLIFE HABITAT CANADA

42


Grantees are able to leverage WHC funding to secure total project funding: 

Total funds leveraged by WHC funded projects - $4,436,999 (Government of Canada funding not counted in the calculation of leveraged funds).

Waterfowl and other priority habitats are protected, conserved and restored: 

Land protected, conserved and restored through funded projects - 30,340 acres (12,278 hectares).

Canadians participate in projects funded by WHC’s Grant Program: Number of participants in projects supported by the WHC Grant Program - 21,525.

CREDIT: Nature Conservancy of Canada, Quebec

Cumulative number of habitat acres conserved, enhanced and restored through WHC funded projects over the past 5 years:

207,980 acres (84,166 hectares).

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2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT WILDLIFE HABITAT CANADA


Financial Summary 2018-2019 Independent Auditor’s Report on Summary Financial Statements

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT ON SUMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

To the Members of Wildlife Habitat Canada Opinion The financial the of position as at March 31, 2019, the summary statement of operations and changes in net assets for the year then ended, and the related note, are derived from the audited financial of Wildlife Habitat Canada for the year ended March 31, 2019. In our opinion, the summary financial statements derived from the audited financial statements of Wildlife Habitat Canada for the year ended March 31, 2019 are a fair summary of those financial statements, in accordance with criteria described in Note 1 to the financial statements. Summary Financial Statements The financial do not all the standards for not-for-profit organizations applied in the preparation of the audited financial statements of Wildlife Habitat Canada. Reading the financial and the auditor’s report is not a substitute for reading the audited financial statements of Wildlife Habitat Canada and the auditor’s report thereon. The Audited Financial Statements and Our Report Thereon We expressed an unmodified audit opinion on those financial statements in our report dated May 31, 2019. Those financial statements, and the summary financial statements, do not reflect the effects of events that occurred subsequent to the date of our report on those financial statements. Management's Responsibility for the Summary Financial Statements is responsible for the preparation of a in Note 1 to the financial statements.

of the audited financial

in accordance with criteria described

Auditor's Responsibility Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the summary financial statements based on our procedures, which were conducted in accordance with Canadian Auditing Standard (CAS) 810, to Report on Summary Financial Statements."

Chartered Professional Accountants, Licensed Public Accountants Ottawa, Ontario May 31, 2019

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT WILDLIFE HABITAT CANADA

44


Financial Summary 2018-2019 WILDLIFE HABITAT CANADA Summarized Statement of Financial Position March 31, 2019, with comparative figures for 2018

WILDLIFE HABITAT CANADA SUMMARY STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION MARCH 31, 2019

2019

2018

ASSETS

CURRENT ASSETS Cash Accounts receivable

$

RESTRICTED CASH AND INVESTMENT

344,410 46,580

$

161,297

$

577,357

172,924

$

717,230

LIABILITIES CURRENT LIABILITIES Bank indebtedness Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 68,042

$

NET ASSETS

Invested in capital assets

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT WILDLIFE HABITAT CANADA

$

10,006

$

45

-

577,357

$

717,230


WILDLIFE HABITAT CANADA Summarized Statement of Operations and Changes in Net Assets Year ended March 31, 2019, with comparative figures for 2018

WILDLIFE HABITAT CANADA SUMMARY STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS AND CHANGES IN NET ASSETS FOR THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2019

2018 REVENUE Canadian Government Funding - Conservation Stamp Program Revenue from mortgage discharge Stamp and prints Philatelic stamps

$ 1,700,000 165,000 17,257 15,508

$ 1,700,136

1,280,000

1,280,136 268,989 63,539 34,191 29,495 65,796

171,015

14,667

20,232 15,726

EXPENSES Funds Habitat Conservation Salaries and benefits General and administration Hospitality, travel and board Rent Professional and contractual fees

EXCESS OF REVENUE OVER EXPENSES

YEAR

CREDIT: Andrew Rochon

$

336,947

$

165,932

CREDIT: Chris Benson

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT WILDLIFE HABITAT CANADA

46


Financial Summary 2018-2019 WILDLIFE HABITAT CANADA Notes to Summary Financial Statements Year ended March 31, 2019

WILDLIFE HABITAT CANADA NOTE TO THE SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS MARCH 31, 2019

1. SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS The summary financial statements are derived from the complete audited financial statements, prepared in accordance with Canadian accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations as at and for the year ended March 31, 2019. The preparation of these summary financial statements requires management to determine the information that needs to be reflected in the summary financial statements so that they are consistent, in all material respects, with or represent a fair summary of the audited financial statements. These summarized financial statements have been prepared by management using the following criteria: (a) whether information in the summarized financial statements is in agreement with the related information in the complete audited financial statements; and (b) whether, in all material respects, the summarized financial statements contain the information necessary to avoid distorting or obscuring matters disclosed in the related complete audited financial statements, including the note thereto. Management has determined that the statement of cash flows and notes to complete financial statements do not provide useful additional information and, as such, has not included it as part of the summary financial statements. The complete audited financial statements of Wildlife Habitat Canada are available upon request by contacting the Organization.

CREDIT: Andrew Rochon

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2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT WILDLIFE HABITAT CANADA

CREDIT: Andrew Rochon


Our Supporters and Partners Through a legislative arrangement with Environment and Climate Change Canada, Wildlife Habitat Canada receives the revenues from the sale of the Canadian Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamp, purchased primarily by waterfowl hunters to validate their Migratory Game Bird Hunting Permits. Each year, Wildlife Habitat Canada receives this financial support through a contribution agreement with Environment and Climate Change Canada. This endeavour supports Environment and Climate Change Canada's responsibility for the protection and conservation of habitat, particularly for the conservation of waterfowl pursuant to the Migratory Birds Convention Act.

Wildlife Habitat Canada would like to thank the following organizations for their support of our partnership programs and activities in 2018-2019: Acadia University

Nord

Alberta Hunter Education Instructors’ Association

Prairie Conservation Action Plan

BC Wildlife Federation

Rousseau Collections

Bird Studies Canada

Rural Lambton Stewardship Network

Canadian Outdoorsman Magazine

SNB Wood Co-operative Ltd.

Credit Valley Conservation Foundation

Stewardship Association of Municipalities

Cree Hunters & Trappers magazine

Sunshine Coast Wildlife Project

Delta Waterfowl Foundation

Sustainable Outdoors Co.

Ducks Unlimited Canada

The Nature Trust of British Columbia

Fondation de la faune du Québec

Trout Unlimited Canada, Prince Country Chapter

Héritage Faune

University of Manitoba

Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority

University of Waterloo, Faculty of Environment

Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation Manitoba Wildlife Federation McGill University Nashwaak Watershed Association Inc. Nature Conservancy of Canada Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources— Wildlife Division Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters Ontario Out of Doors Magazine Organisme des bassins versants de la Haute-Côte-

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT WILDLIFE HABITAT CANADA

48


The Need for a Stamp Increase The price of the Canadian Wildlife Habitat Conservation Stamp, currently $8.50, has not changed since 1991. As a result, the conservation purchasing power of the Stamp has greatly diminished over the last 28 years.

The revenue generated from the Stamp funds WHC's conservation grant program.

Consider this...

Environment and Climate Change Canada put a proposal to increase the price of the Stamp out for public consultation in Spring 2018. The process has been put on hold and at this time, it is unknown as to when the Minister of Environment and Climate Change will make a decision on the proposed Stamp increase. With the support of many of partners, and all 25 national and regional organizations that were members of the Hunting and Angling Advisory Panel, we are hopeful for an increase to the price of the Stamp, which would provide additional, much needed funds for our grant program – and Canadian conservation efforts!!

How can you help?? Double up on your Canadian Duck Stamp by purchasing a collector’s edition Stamp!

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2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT WILDLIFE HABITAT CANADA


Staff Executive Director Cameron Mack

Program Manager Julia Thompson Director of Finance and Administration Pierre Vary Accountant Hao Wu

Contract Staff Communications & Outreach Coordinator Andrew Rochon Print Program Coordinator Tejal Mistry Program Coordinator Shams Kaddoura

French Translation Services 

Nadine Cardinal

Johanne Lemieux

Anne-Marie Couture

With special thanks to our volunteers: 

Chris Benson

Jeonghyun Anne Lim

Thanh-Truc Do

Brittany Sullivan

2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT WILDLIFE HABITAT CANADA

50


Board of Directors Chair Wm. Michael Phippen Sr. Vice President and Managing Director, BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc.

Chair, Finance and Audit Committee Jim Fisher Director of Conservation Policy, Delta Waterfowl

Vice-Chair David Lee Harris Retired Regional Director, Eastern Region, Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources

Chair, Nominating Committee Susan F. Gesner President, Gesner and Associates Environmental Learning

Directors

Brad Potter Manager, Fish and Wildlife, Forests, Fish and Wildlife Division, PEI Department of Communities, Land and Environment

Jennifer Psyllakis Director, Wildlife and Habitat Branch, BC Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Operations and Rural Development

Travis Ripley Executive Director, Fish and Wildlife Policy Branch, Alberta Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Resource Development

Michael G. Anderson Emeritus Scientist Institute for Wetland and Waterfowl Research, Ducks Unlimited Canada

Ryan Reynolds Co-owner, Capital Waterfowling Inc. and professional waterfowl guide

Crystal Robertson Stewardship Coordinator, Toronto Zoo

Serge Larivière Director General, Cree Hunters and Trappers Income Security Board

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2018-2019 ANNUAL REPORT WILDLIFE HABITAT CANADA


1987

Putting our stamp on Canadian conservation since 1985.

2039 Robertson Road, Suite 247, Ottawa ON K2H 8R2

Telephone: 613-722-2090 Toll-Free: 1-800-669-7919 Email: admin@whc.org

WWW.WHC.ORG

Š Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of the Environment, 1985-2019.