A provincial riparian health council is formed

The Manitoba Cattle Producers Association (MCPA) has joined with other agriculture and conservation groups in a new initiative that will help to protect Manitoba’s water supply in ways that also work to the benefit of producers.

The Riparian Health Council has emerged with a vision for approaches that enhance riparian areas and surface water quality in ways that also support landowner needs. Rather than a number of individual organizations working in isolation from each other, the Council will create a network of agencies in Manitoba working together, improving the effectiveness of their initiatives. Five regional working groups, involving producers and program delivery staff, will help to improve cooperation at the local level.

As Council chair, the MCPA takes a lead role in an initiative that focuses on cooperative rather than regulatory approaches to a healthy environment and clean water.

Improving stream bank and lakeshore vegetation not only helps wildlife and plant species, but improves fish habitat, provides flood and erosion control and improves the quality of surface waters. Helping landowners to improve grazing and water management systems on their pastures can also contribute to their profitability.

“It will be completely voluntary and cooperative,” said Clair De’Athe, the MCPA director and Environment Committee chair. “I think the possibilities are very positive for the cattle industry and for our bottom line.”

The Manitoba Rural Adaptation Council supports the Riparian Health Council and related stewardship projects.