Introduction
The Manitoba
governments concern for the deterioration and loss of fish
and wildlife habitat was demonstrated in 1985 with the initiation
of the Manitoba Habitat Heritage Program. The program was implemented
to protect or improve habitat through acquisition, leases and enhancement
projects and was initially delivered by the Manitoba Department
of Natural Resources.
Then in February 1986, the Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation was established as a
non-profit Crown corporation by the proclamation of the Manitoba Habitat Heritage Act
Mandate
The
Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation (MHHC) was established as
a Crown Corporation by the Manitoba Habitat Heritage Act in 1986
to "Conserve, restore and enhance fish and wildlife habitat".
MHHC conserves habitat by working in partnership with private landowners,
farm organizations, corporations, conservation groups and government
agencies. MHHCs vision is to ensure a cleaner, greener landscape
that benefits all Manitobans.
From the beginning MHHC was structured to generate innovative solutions to conservation
challenges that benefit both the landowner and wildlife. As MHHC enters its second decade,
it continues to expand its role as a deal-maker and facilitator of conservation
partnerships and a delivery agency for farm friendly conservation initiatives.
Objectives
MHHC focuses on the
agricultural regions of Manitoba, to promote conservation practises that not only benefit
wildlife habitat, but also help to sustain farm family income and productive use of land.
MMHC focuses on private land and uses voluntary incentives to private landowners to
maintain ecosystem health and biodiversity. MHHC works through three major program areas:
North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP), Woodlot Management, and Riparian
Stewardship.
MHHC has field
offices in, Brandon, Shoal Lake, Reston, Killarney and Minnedosa
and a head office in Winnipeg.
The MHHC is governed by a Board of Directors that are responsible to the Manitoba
Minister of Conservation. The Board is comprised of 11 members in total and consists of
representatives from: Manitoba Conservation, Manitoba Agriculture, Environment Canada,
Keystone Agriculture Producers, Association of Manitoba Municipalities, Ducks Unlimited
Canada, Delta Waterfowl Foundation, Manitoba Conservation Districts Association, and 3
Citizen Representatives.
Non-voting Board representatives include: Manitoba Cattle Producers Association,
Agriculture Canada (PFRA), Manitoba Conservation (Wildlife Branch), Manitoba Wildlife
Federation, Nature Conservancy of Canada, and Prairie Habitat Joint Venture.
History
In the
beginning
.years 1986-1990
MHHC worked primarily as a funding body, receiving funds from the
Province to invest in worthwhile fish and wildlife habitat initiatives.
MHHC funding for projects was very often matched from outside private
or other public sources. In 1989, MHHC became a founding member
and major partner in the Critical Wildlife Habitat Program (CWHP).
The program was established to conserve unique and threatened habitats
such as tall grass prairie, burrowing owl habitat, garter snake
denning sites and locations of endangered plant species.
1990- The North American Waterfowl Management Plan
In 1990 the Manitoba
Minister of Natural Resources designated MHHC as the agency responsible
for coordinating the delivery of NAWMP in Manitoba. As a result
MHHC took on a new dimension. Field offices were established and
staffed to better serve the needs of the clients-landowners in southwestern
Manitoba. NAWMP funding provided MHHC with a 15- year opportunity
to encourage a positive change in land use practises on the Prairies.
1992- The Manitoba Agro Woodlot Program
In 1992, MHHC was selected to be the delivery agency for the agro-forestry
component of the Canada-Manitoba Partnership Agreement in Forestry.
The Woodlot program represented an additional conservation tool
for landowners seeking technical assistance and incentives to manage
their woodlands sustainably.
1995- Riparian Stewardship Program
MHHC began its efforts targeting riparian areas in 1995 with the
launch of its Green Banks program. This program focused on the protection
of stream-bank and lakeshore habitats that provide valuable habitat
for birds and other wildlife, as well as contribute to clean stream
water and better fish habitat. The Green Banks program was used
to provide funding for land use practices that conserve habitat,
maintain clean water and provide sustainable income opportunities
for landowners.
From that beginning,
MHHC's efforts have been expanded. The new Riparian Stewardship Program is now delivered
with its support of many partners.
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