Friday 6 June 2014

Executive Director's good news secret ...

(Editors note: I said I'd never publish two blog posts on the same day ... 
...but this is such good news... and I can't keep a good news secret!
We've had such a strong increase in our readership that I want you to read it here first :-)




June 06, 2014
 

Media Release


We are still recovering from the flood of 2014, and fear is high that this year will bring more trouble. Reservoirs are at their lowest levels ever – just in case. Canadians rank the economy and healthcare as the most important national issues, while water pollution and supply continue to be low priorities. In fact, since 2008, Canadians’ concern for water quality in lakes, rivers and streams has decreased. Yet 75% of Canadians understand that, due to climate change, extreme weather events, such as flooding, will become more and more frequent.


Over $57,000 is designated towards a very special project to help protect headwaters. A cheque presentation will take place on RBC’s Blue Water Day, Thursday, June 12th at 11:00 a.m., at the RBC branch in Lethbridge (1139 Mayor Magrath Drive South). Branch manager Brian Bradley will present the donation to OWC Executive Director, Shannon Frank.

The RBC Blue Water Project was launched in 2007 to help provide access to drinkable, swimmable, fishable water today and for future generations. To date, RBC has pledged over $38 million to more than 650 charitable organizations worldwide that protect watersheds and promote access to clean drinking water, with an additional $7.8 million pledged to universities for water programs.

“The Blue Water Project is an important part of how RBC gives back to the communities we live and work in,” says Mark Brown, regional vice president, RBC. “Water matters – pure and simple. Last year, we began focusing our efforts on supporting projects that help protect and preserve water in communities across the country – projects just like this.” 

Photo courtesy Andy Hurly
Important at-risk fish species in the headwaters thank the RBC, too! 

The public is invited to attend to hear Executive Director  Shannon Frank explain how that grant money has been designated to protect our headwaters. Our water source begins in the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains and provides all our drinking water in southern Alberta. But all is not rosy – due to increased development, recreation, industry and agriculture, 80% of our headwaters are classified as “in danger” as its health declines and species’ populations are at risk.

The OWC welcomes all enquiries about watershed management and health – 
and how you can make a difference in your local community

To find out more – or to become an important volunteer or sponsor – please contact:

Shannon Frank
OWC Executive Director
100, 5401-1st Avenue SouthLethbridgeAB T1J 4V6 
Phone: 403-382-4239 
Email: shannon@oldmanbasin.org
www.oldmanbasin.org







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