Conservation and Climate Annual Report 2015-2016
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Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardship Conservation et Gestion des ressources hydriques Manitoba Annual Report Rapport annuel 2015-2016 2015-2016 This Report is available in alternate formats by contacting the Department’s Accessibility Coordinator at (204) 806-4668. Online version available at http://www.gov.mb.ca/conservation/annual-reports/con_reports/index.html ________________________________________ MINISTER OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT Legislative Building Winnipeg, Manitoba, CANADA R3C 0V8 The Honourable Janice C. Filmon, C.M., O.M. Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba Room 235 Legislative Building Winnipeg, MB R3C 0V8 Your Honour: I am pleased to present you with the Annual Report for Manitoba Department of Conservation and Water Stewardship for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2016. The Annual report describes the Department’s significant achievements in fulfilling its mandate of protecting the environment, while facilitating sustainable resource development and appropriate wildlife management for the benefit of all Manitobans. I hope that the information in this report demonstrates the positive results of our ongoing work to protect, preserve and sustain our beautiful province, for Manitobans today and for future generations. Respectfully submitted, “Original signed by” Cathy Cox Minister Deputy Minister Room 314 – Legislative Building Winnipeg, MB R3C 0V8 T 204-945-3785 F 204-945-3586 [email protected] The Honourable Catherine Cox Minister of Sustainable Development Room 314, Legislative Building Winnipeg, MB R3C 0V8 Dear Minister: I am pleased to present you with the Annual Report of the Manitoba Department of Conservation and Water Stewardship for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2016. The Annual Report provides an overview of activities carried out by the Department in 2015/16. The Department is committed to delivering quality programs and services to protect our environment and foster sustainable economic activities. The Department balances the diverse interests of Manitobans to help ensure a prosperous and environmentally-conscious economy. The management of Manitoba’s environment and natural resources includes a wide range of responsibilities and opportunities for the Department. It is to the collective credit of the talented and dedicated staff that the Department provides quality programs and services for the protection of our environment. We look forward to continuing this positive momentum in the years to come. It is a privilege to submit this report on the achievements of the Department and its partners for 2015/16. Respectfully submitted, “Original signed by” Grant Doak Contents Organization Chart ....................................................................................................................................................... 5 Highlights ...................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Faits saillants ............................................................................................................................................................... 8 FINANCE AND CROWN LANDS ................................................................................................................................ 10 Minister’s Salary ....................................................................................................................................................... 10 Executive Support .................................................................................................................................................... 10 Administration and Financial Services ..................................................................................................................... 11 Corporate Crown Lands Policy ................................................................................................................................. 12 Clean Environment Commission .............................................................................................................................. 13 GeoManitoba ............................................................................................................................................................ 14 Lands ........................................................................................................................................................................ 17 Indigenous Relations ................................................................................................................................................ 21 PARKS AND REGIONAL SERVICES ........................................................................................................................ 23 Regional Support Services ....................................................................................................................................... 23 Northwest Region ..................................................................................................................................................... 28 Northeast Region ...................................................................................................................................................... 33 Central Region .......................................................................................................................................................... 36 Eastern Region ......................................................................................................................................................... 43 Western Region ........................................................................................................................................................ 45 Parks and Protected Spaces .................................................................................................................................... 49 Fire and Emergency Response Program ................................................................................................................. 58 ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP .......................................................................................................................... 69 Divisional Administration .......................................................................................................................................... 69 Environmental Compliance and Enforcement .......................................................................................................... 70 Environmental Approvals .......................................................................................................................................... 74 Climate Change and Air Quality ................................................................................................................................ 77 Strategic Policy and Coordination ............................................................................................................................ 80 Green Manitoba and Eco Solutions .......................................................................................................................... 84 International Institute for Sustainable Development ................................................................................................. 85 WATER STEWARDSHIP AND BIODIVERSITY ......................................................................................................... 86 Administration ........................................................................................................................................................... 86 Water Science and Management ............................................................................................................................. 87 Wildlife and Fisheries ............................................................................................................................................... 95 Habitat Enhancement Fund .................................................................................................................................... 115 The Fish and Wildlife Enhancement Fund ............................................................................................................. 116 Conservation District and Watershed Assistance .................................................................................................. 119 Office of Drinking Water ......................................................................................................................................... 121 Drainage and Water Control Licensing .................................................................................................................. 123 Water Use Licensing .............................................................................................................................................. 124 Watershed and Land Use Planning ........................................................................................................................ 127 Forestry and Peatlands Management .................................................................................................................... 129 Pineland Forest Nursery ......................................................................................................................................... 139 Water Stewardship Initiatives ................................................................................................................................