St. Albert Cheese Co-op supports Clean Water initiative

The St- Albert Cheese Co-op has continued their commitment to water quality initiatives with the presentation of a $5,000 cheque from President Denis Latour to the South Nation Conservation Clean Water Program. The latest donation raises the total invested by the co-operative to $46,000 since 2004.

PHOTO CREDIT - Submitted Photo

Finch - Jul. 22, 2011 - The St- Albert Cheese Co-op has continued their commitment to water quality initiatives with the presentation of a $5,000 cheque from President Denis Latour to the South Nation Conservation Clean Water Program. The latest donation raises the total invested by the co-operative to $46,000 since 2004.

In welcoming the funding, Clean Water Committee chair Denis Perrault praised the Co-op for its dedication to water quality enhancement in the region.

“We’re pleased to be able to continue our long-time partnership with St- Albert Cheese,” said Perrault. “Their support over the years has helped protect water quality in the area.”

Funding from the Co-op has helped implement 43 Clean Water Program projects in the region since 2004, including 12 in and around Nation Municipality in 2010.

Co-op president Denis Latour says the funding not only helps improve water quality in the watershed, but is also a way to give back to the agricultural sector. “We’re proud to be associated with the Clean Water Program,” says Latour. “We consider our contribution to be part of our overall support of the community and the region.” The Co-op, made up of 40 local farm operators, sponsors many community events including the upcoming Festival de la Curd (August 17-21).

The Clean Water Program has provided a pro-active approach to protection of South Nation River water resources since 1993. Many watershed residents rely on the South Nation River for drinking water, livestock watering, crop production, recreation, and fisheries habitat.

Since 1993, over $2.1 million has been granted to local farmers and landowners for 681 projects that address non-point source pollution and protect surface and ground water quality. Total value of these projects is estimated at $10,406,279.