Minister Outlines Resource Management Priorities
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Blairmore District Fish and Wildlife Officer Kirk Olchowy (right) introduces Sustainable Resource Development Minister Ted Morton (left) to Atlas, one of the department's Karelian bear dogs. The dogs are a special breed of canine that help officers deal with wildlife-human conflict situations. |
Completing a Land-use Framework for Alberta , conserving biological diversity and protecting the health of Alberta 's forests are the top priorities of Alberta 's new Minister of Sustainable Resource Development.
In one of his first official functions, Ted Morton told a Pincher Creek audience that the three initiatives will help manage development pressures on the province's land base and help Albertans balance quality of life with economic prosperity.
“None of us in 20 years wants to say to our grandkids, ‘Oh, you should have seen what Alberta was like 20 years ago – it was a wonderful place.' I don't want to say that. Do any of you want to say that? No,” Minister Morton told the crowd gathered at the Willow Valley Trophy Club for an awards ceremony on January 13, 2007.
The new minister added that focusing on the department's top three priorities will provide a legacy for future generations. For example, the Land-use Framework will address conflicts over competing land use through an integrated planning approach. The Minister stated the development process will include public consultation beginning later this year.
Minister Morton emphasized that land-use planning in Alberta must include strategies to conserve and protect the province's biological resources. He said the estimated 80,000 species of living organisms in Alberta – including plants, animals and insects – contribute to both economic prosperity and quality of life.
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New Sustainable Resource Development Minister Ted Morton addresses Pincher Creek game club audience against a backdrop of entries for 58th annual fish and wildlife trophy competition. |
Protecting the province's forests is also important, Minister Morton said, noting the threat posed by mountain pine beetle infestations from neighbouring British Columbia . Alberta will continue its aggressive action against that threat, he said.
Minister Morton said he is committed to preserving recreational opportunities and outdoors habitat for hunters and fishermen, and to ensure Sustainable Resource Development staff receive the support required to effectively manage one of the best fish and game regions in the world.
It's important that Alberta 's outdoor traditions be continued, the Minister added, encouraging youth in attendance at the event to “go hunting and fishing with your fathers and grandfathers.”
The Minister thanked event organizers for their contributions to outdoor recreation in Alberta and encouraged all attendees to actively support Alberta 's hunting and fishing heritage.
