April 16, 2021 Vancouver, British Columbia Parks Canada Agency
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Canadians have rediscovered the many benefits connecting with nature has for our health and well-being. The Government of Canada is continuing to deliver on its commitment to protect more nature across the country to fight climate change, protect our iconic biodiversity and ensure Canadians can spend time outdoors in their communities.
Today, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, and the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, the Honourable Carla Qualtrough, announced $12.8 million in funding for Project Learning Tree Canada to employ youth in nature conservation.
With this funding, which is provided through the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy, Project Learning Tree Canada will employ more than 1,700 youth in nature conservation, such as forest restoration and tree planting. Through this partnership, opportunities for youth will be offered in a wide variety of settings, thanks to a broad network of forest and conservation partners in the Sustainable Forestry Initiative network, the Canadian Parks Council network, as well as, the Nature Conservancy of Canada, and Ducks Unlimited Canada.
This investment will help young people begin rewarding careers in the conservation and forest sector, while preserving Canada's natural heritage, combatting climate change, and helping to restore healthy, resilient ecosystems.
Youth employment opportunities are now open. Youth and employers interested in this program can apply at Project Learning Tree Canada.
