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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Commercial Bear Viewing Association Takes Action: Launches Small Grant Program for Bear Conservation
Victoria, May 15, 2024—In a committed display of solidarity and responsibility toward our wildlife, the Commercial Bear Viewing Association (CBVA) is thrilled to announce the launch of its Small Grant Program for Conservation. As stewards of our natural world, Bear viewing operators play a crucial role in promoting eco-tourism and fostering a deeper understanding of bears and their habitats. This initiative, catalyzed by the closure of the grizzly bear hunt in 2017, underscores the pressing need for proactive conservation efforts.
Moved by a deep sense of stewardship, operators within the Commercial Bear Viewing Association have rallied together and raised an impressive $300,000 to date. This collective commitment demonstrates their unwavering dedication to the well-being of bears and their habitats.
The CBVA Small Grant Program for Conservation aims to make a tangible difference in the conservation landscape by supporting projects that will enhance bear habitats, mitigate human-bear conflicts, and advance our understanding of bear behaviour and ecology. With grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000, the program aims to support projects that preserve and enhance bear habitats while fostering harmonious coexistence between humans and bears. Through these initiatives, we anticipate a measurable improvement in the health and resilience of bear populations, fostering a more sustainable coexistence between humans and bears in our communities. By investing in these conservation efforts, we are not only safeguarding the future of bears but also preserving the rich biodiversity and natural heritage of our ecosystems for generations to come.
“We are incredibly proud of our operators who have stood up and embraced their responsibility to conserve bears and their habitats,” said Kathy MacRae, Executive Director of the CBVA. “Their tireless efforts and generosity have made the launch of the CBVA Small Grant Program for Conservation possible. Together, we are committed to ensuring a bright future for these magnificent creatures.”
The grant program is open to non-profit organizations, research institutions, Indigenous governments or organizations, coalitions, and registered charities. Projects eligible for funding include innovative solutions for bear habitat preservation, research on bear behaviour and distribution, mitigation of human-bear conflicts, as well as initiatives aimed at enhancing the bear viewing experience.
Join us in our mission to conserve bears and their habitats. Whether you’re a passionate conservationist, a non-profit organization, a research institution, or a registered charity, your involvement is crucial. Spread the word, submit your project proposals, or consider contributing to our fundraising efforts. Together, we can make a meaningful difference for bears and the ecosystems they inhabit. Visit the CBVA website for more information on how you can get involved.
Projects eligible for funding include, but are not limited to:
- Research on bear behavior, distribution, and ecology
- Habitat restoration and enhancement
- Community-based initiatives addressing human-bear conflicts
- Conservation education and outreach programs
- Sustainable tourism practices promoting bear viewing
Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the CBVA website for more information on eligibility criteria and the application process.
For further inquiries, please contact:
Kathy MacRae, Executive Director, Commercial Bear Viewing Association
604-762-7751
About the Commercial Bear Viewing Association: The Commercial Bear Viewing Association (CBVA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation and responsible management of bear populations and their habitats. Since its establishment, the CBVA has been at the forefront of efforts to promote sustainable bear-viewing practices and support conservation initiatives across the province. Through partnerships with operators, First Nations, researchers, and communities, CBVA strives to foster a deeper understanding of bears and their importance in the ecosystem while advocating for their protection for future generations.
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