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Province shells out funds for turtle research

The Junction Creek Stewardship Committee will get provincial backing in the amount of $34,527 to investigate the landing’s turtle and snapping turtle populations in wetlands within Greater Sudbury.

The Junction Creek Stewardship Committee will get provincial backing in the amount of $34,527 to investigate the landing’s turtle and snapping turtle populations in wetlands within Greater Sudbury.

The committee aims to increase public awareness of species at risk, particularly turtles, and conservation measures that will ensure survival of these species, said Sudbury MPP Rick Bartolucci.

“I am pleased that our government is supporting this project,” said Bartolucci. “Through the tireless efforts of its dedicated volunteers, the Junction Creek Stewardship Committee has made a positive difference in our community.”

Over the past six years, more than 600 Species at Risk Stewardship Fund projects have helped protect and recover more than 200 different species at risk, including peregrine falcons, landing’s turtles and American Chestnut trees.

The fund has helped restore more than 24,000 hectares of important habitat, while also supporting 2,100 jobs and an estimated 256,600 hours of volunteer work that make a real difference in communities across the province.

“Each one of us has a responsibility to protect our species at risk and safeguard Ontario's biodiversity for future generations,” said Bartolucci.

“This really is a community-driven project” said Sarah Woods, research manager with the group. “Reported turtle sightings are an integral part of this research. We are learning a great deal about turtle habitats within the Junction Creek watershed, we are teaching students about species and risk, and ultimately helping conserve local turtle populations. We are grateful for the support of the provincial government toward such an important initiative.”

Ontario is home to more than 30,000 species of plants and animals with more than 200 currently considered at risk.


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