News Release

For immediate release
March 16, 2004

Investment Made to Help Grow Local Recreational Fisheries

MARGAREE, N.S. – Time to dig out your fishing gear. A significant infrastructure investment – expected to increase fish stocks necessary to restock rivers throughout Cape Breton – was announced today by
Rodger Cuzner, MP for Bras d’Or–Cape Breton.

“Over the next three years, this project will enhance the competitiveness of Cape Breton communities and stimulate tourism activities during the
off-season,” said Mr. Cuzner. “The recreational fishery is a major contributor to rural tourism, and it brings anglers to the region – which creates opportunities throughout the chain of the hospitality industry.”

Fisheries and Oceans Minister Geoff Regan added, “This project will help the recreational fisheries industry in Cape Breton continue to be a significant contributor to the economy, especially in rural areas.”

The Aquatic Development Association of Margaree (ADAM) will undertake improvements to the fish hatchery in Margaree and will raise and release parr, fry and smolt to restock rivers throughout Cape Breton.

ADAM was formed by a group of Margaree residents in 1995, in an effort to keep the Margaree Fish Hatchery open. The organization plays a vital role in maintaining the health of the Margaree River and has the mandate of operating the hatchery. The Margaree area is a destination for the recreational salmon fishery and draws anglers from around the world.

The total cost of this project over the next three years is $555,555. Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation (ECBC) will provide a non-repayable contribution of $500,000 through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s (ACOA) Strategic Community Investment Fund (SCIF).

“It is estimated that 100,000 fish will be released into local habitat in each of the next three years,” said Carl Ross, president of ADAM. “This is a major project that will play a significant role in the sustainability and expansion of the recreational fishery.”

The Strategic Community Investment Fund provides $135 million over five years to help communities in Atlantic Canada create an environment that encourages and enhances, among other activities, the development of strategic sectors such as tourism.

Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation offers programs in support of economic development initiatives and is responsible for delivering ACOA's programs in Cape Breton and the Mulgrave area.



FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT:

Stephen Heckbert
Office of the Honourable Joseph McGuire 
Tel: (613) 948-7293

Office of Rodger Cuzner, MP
Bras d’Or –Cape Breton
Tel: (902) 842-9763

Carl Ross
President, Aquatic Development
Association of Margaree
Tel: (902) 248-2845

Rick Beaton
Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation
Tel: (902) 564-3618