Wetland restoration efforts at Golf Course Creek were given a boost last Wednesday thanks to a $30,000 grant from the Royal Bank of Canada’s (RBC) Blue Water Project.
Once restored, a natural wetland at Golf Course Creek will have the potential to filter water from Golf Course Creek before it flows into Marina Bay. As a result, functioning wetland habitat will be restored in the area, fostering an environment for various species of animals, insects and vegetation.
The grant arrived as part of RBC’s 10-year $50 million commitment to enhancing water-based projects, explained Ron Sauve, RBC regional vice president for Alberta Central.
“Water is one of our most precious resources, so we’re really focused on replenishing the water supply and giving everyone access to nice, clean water,” he said. “We’re proud to support the work of the community, the Town of Sylvan Lake and the Marina Bay Homeowners Association, and their dedication to ensuring that Sylvan Lake continues to be a clean lake for generations to come.”
The Blue Water Project, which began in 2007, has so far committed $44 million dollars to applicable initiatives.
Sauve first learned of the Golf Course Creek project when he was approached by several members of the Marina Bay Homeowners Association late last year. After a number of discussions and the creation of a proposal, the project was approved for funding.
“They submitted their request, and then from that we were able to announce the $30,000 grant last week,” said Sauve. “It’s an excellent program that they’ve worked on.”
With $6 million in funding and two years remaining in the original commitment, Blue Water Project applications are still being sought, and Sauve said there’s no reason further funding couldn’t arrive in the Sylvan Lake area.
“Last week globally we announced $3.2 million in funding to protect the water,” he said. “I was just pleased to be part of the announcement in Sylvan Lake and just to be able to help the community.”