Ottawa to back Experimental Lakes Area that nearly fell victim to Conservative budget cuts

The federal government is promising $1.7 million to the freshwater research station, which allows scientists to conduct research on lakes and ecosystems.

TheStar.com
Aug. 10, 2016
By The Canadian Press

The federal Liberal government is formally committing $1.7 million over two years to support a renowned freshwater research station that nearly fell victim to Conservative budget cuts.

The International Institute for Sustainable Development’s Experimental Lakes Area in northwestern Ontario allows scientists to conduct research on real lakes and ecosystems.

Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne and Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister joined Liberal MP Bob Nault today for the funding announcement.

The facility was nearly closed in 2012 due to budget-cutting by the former Conservative government.

The move sparked an outcry from scientists across North America and the Ontario government, with the sustainable development institute stepping in to save it in 2014.

The federal Liberals promised during the election campaign to restore funding if elected.

“We are pleased to provide federal funding to IISD Experimental Lakes Area and to support its legacy of informing important policy decisions in Canada and around the world,” Fisheries Minister Dominic LeBlanc said in a statement.

Wynne said the research lab conducts unique environmental research and she is pleased that the federal government is renewing its partnership in the facility.

Ontario provides up to $2 million a year to the project, while Manitoba has committed more than $6 million over six years to support and advance operating costs.

Scientists use the station to study things like acid rain, climate change, algae blooms and mercury pollution, helping to inform environmental legislation in Canada and around the world.