Saskatchewan Proclaims 17th Annual Native Prairie Appreciation Week

Released on June 12, 2015

Agriculture Minister Lyle Stewart and Environment Minister Herb Cox have jointly proclaimed June 14-20, 2015, as Native Prairie Appreciation Week in Saskatchewan.

Native Prairie Appreciation Week is unique to Saskatchewan and is celebrated each year in partnership with Saskatchewan Prairie Conservation Action Plan (SK PCAP).  The week is dedicated to raising awareness and appreciation of our native prairie ecosystems while also highlighting the important role of farmers, ranchers, and the broader public in the conservation and management of Saskatchewan’s native ecosystems.

"Saskatchewan agriculture producers take pride in the work they do and they recognize the important role they play in sustaining our native prairies," Stewart said.  "By using native prairie sustainably, ranchers and farmers have been able to contribute to the long-term social and economic health of their communities while preserving the native prairie ecosystems that are synonymous with Saskatchewan’s natural beauty."

“Properly managed grasslands contribute to the sustainable management of Saskatchewan's invaluable natural resources,” Cox said.  “These grasslands are an important part of our heritage and I encourage all residents to take this opportunity to appreciate the unique benefits and continued conservation of our native prairie ecosystems."

“One of Saskatchewan’s most cherished possessions is its incredibly diverse range of ecosystems and wildlife,” PCAP Chair Orin Balas said.  "The continued co-operation of Saskatchewan’s ranchers, farmers and general public to preserve the ecological health and biodiversity of Saskatchewan's prairies is commendable, and we look forward to their continued support."

Celebratory events will be taking place across the province and will include a youth poster contest, a rural workshop near Prince Albert and urban awareness booths at the Regina and Saskatoon Farmer’s Markets and National Aboriginal Day events.

For a complete listing of events and workshops across Saskatchewan, or for more information regarding Native Prairie Appreciation Week, please visit www.pcap-sk.org or contact their office at 306-352-0472 or pcap@sasktel.net.

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For more information, contact:

Sarah Hein
Agriculture
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5389
Email: sarah.hein@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-527-9102

Ashley Racette 
Environment
Regina
Phone: 306-787-6595
Email: ashley.racette@gov.sk.ca