In The News

Kitchener Resident Receives Award for Contributions to Nottawasaga River Watershed and the Coldwater Fisheries

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(CCNMatthews - May 7, 2007) - The Honourable Loyola Hearn, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, today presented the 2007 Recreational Fisheries Awards to four recipients, recognizing their hard work and dedication in promoting conservation and sustainable recreational fishing. The awards ceremony took place on Parliament Hill.

"Canada's Government has made significant investments in marine conservation and fisheries science since we took office; but governments can't do it alone," said Minister Hearn to the award recipients. "Thanks in large part to people like you, Canadians will be able to enjoy healthy fish stocks in a clean environment for generations to come. You sacrifice your time, energy and resources to get the work done on the front line. I am honoured to recognize your hard work and dedication at this ceremony today."

Minister Hearn presented the winners with a pewter medallion, made by the Canadian Mint, a lapel pin and a framed Award Certificate
Mr. Chris Atkinson, Kitchener, Ontario. Through the various initiatives that he has spearheaded, Mr. Chris Atkinson has raised awareness of the significance of the Nottawasaga River Watershed as one of the premier coldwater fisheries ecosystems in the Province of Ontario. An avid participant in recreational fishing, Chris founded the Nottawasaga Steelheaders Association in 1993 in order to develop a non-government organization that would act as an advocate for the coldwater fisheries of the Nottawasaga Basin and promote their effective management. By establishing and providing leadership, Chris has been a key contributor to the Boyne River Restoration Program since 1996. Mr. Atkinson has worked tirelessly to further the positive management of wild coldwater fish stocks and to restore their habitat. See Watersheds leading to Georigan Bay

Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Ottawa
Sophie Galarneau
Media Relations
613-990-7537

Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Ottawa
Office of the Minister
Steve Outhouse, Director of Communications
613-992-3474