Province Proclaims Native Prairie Appreciation Week

Released on June 16, 2014

Agriculture Minister Lyle Stewart and Environment Minister Scott Moe have jointly proclaimed June 15 to 21, 2014, as Native Prairie Appreciation Week in Saskatchewan.

“Saskatchewan’s farming and ranching families have consistently shown they are world leaders in the stewardship and sustainability of our native prairies,” Stewart said.  “The conservation efforts of our producers contribute to the long-term success of Saskatchewan’s agricultural industry.”

“Saskatchewan’s ecosystem is very diverse and unique,” Moe said.  “Our native grasslands are not only an important part of the province’s natural capital, they are also part of our heritage.  We recognize the importance of Saskatchewan’s native grasslands for the habitat they provide and for the numerous benefits these areas provide to ranchers, recreational users and the broader public.”

Since 1999, the ministries have jointly proclaimed the week in conjunction with the Saskatchewan Prairie Conservation Action Plan.  The week is dedicated to increasing awareness and appreciation for the vital role native prairies play in Saskatchewan’s agricultural and environmental sectors.  It is the only week of its kind in North America, serving as a great opportunity for farmers, ranchers, educators and all residents of Saskatchewan to appreciate the unique benefits and continued conservation of our native prairie ecosystems.

“Saskatchewan’s native prairie resources are an important part of the fabric that makes up our ecological, cultural and agricultural heritage,” Saskatchewan Prairie Conservation Action Plan Manager Tara Davidson said.  “Celebrating native prairie enables us to appreciate our past and look thoughtfully toward the future of prairie conservation in this province.”

This year’s festivities will begin June 16 with a renewal ceremony and the release of the Saskatchewan Prairie Conservation Action Plan’s 2014-18 Framework for Action.  Additional events include: a youth poster contest; urban awareness booths at the farmer’s markets in Regina and Saskatoon; National Aboriginal Day celebration events; and the Society for Range Management Tour near Val Marie.

For more information, please visit the Saskatchewan Prairie Conservation Action Plan’s website at www.pcap-sk.org or contact their office at 306-352-0472 or pcap@sasktel.net.

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For more information, contact:

Angela Hall
Agriculture
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2359
Email: angela.hall@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-527-0521

Jamie Gibson
Environment
Regina
Phone: 306-798-3900
Email: jamie.gibson@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-519-9290