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Monsanto Recognized for Support of Riverbank Ponds 
Receives special award for contribution to local nature attraction
Summary—Ducks Unlimited Canada recognized Monsanto Canada for their $34,000 contribution to Riverbank Ponds in Brandon, Manitoba. The funds will be applied to continued development of interpretive ponds and to help restore the surrounding dense nesting cover (DNC) grassland habitat. Made up of a mixture of native grasses, DNC provides important cover and protection for waterfowl and other animals. DUC presented Monsanto Canada with the Diamond Heritage award for Monsanto’s overall contribution to DUC of over $75,000.
Brandon , Man., October 18, 2005—Visitors to Brandon’s Riverbank Discovery Centre will get an authentic glimpse of prairie grasslands thanks to a corporate donation from Monsanto Canada. Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC), together with the Riverbank Discovery Centre recognized Monsanto Canada’s sponsorship today with the unveiling of a project sign and presentation of a Diamond Heritage award.
Monsanto has donated $34,000 to DUC to be applied to the construction and continued development of the interpretive ponds and mixed-grass prairie restoration at the Riverbank Ponds. DUC constructed and maintains the two interpretive wetlands and a parcel of native prairie adjacent to the wetlands.
Monsanto’s donation will boost the habitat value of the upland habitat surrounding the ponds, providing homes for many species of waterfowl, birds, mammals and amphibians. A mix of several varieties of native grasses was sown to mimic the appearance of the acres of prairie that existed in the area prior to European settlement. Known as dense nesting cover, or DNC, the grass mixture provides cover and protection for waterfowl and other animals. Native species are used because they have evolved to survive the extremes of Prairie winters and summers.
The ponds and revitalized prairie will be a draw for people, too. His Worship, Mayor Dave Burgess said, “The ponds and surrounding area are a great place for family gatherings and social events – all of which bring people to the city from all areas of southwest Manitoba. Thanks to Monsanto’s donation we can ensure the quality of this unique place well into the future.”
In making the presentation, DUC director Michael Leech said, “today we recognize Monsanto’s dedication to community efforts like the Riverbank Ponds and prairie restoration project. Monsanto is a strong supporter of Ducks Unlimited Canada and habitat conservation in Manitoba and it’s a real pleasure to be able to publicly acknowledge their corporate leadership in my hometown.”
Following the unveiling of an interpretive sign describing the ponds and DNC projects, Leech presented Trish Jordan, public affairs lead with Monsanto Canada, with a Diamond Heritage award in recognition of Monsanto’s overall support of DUC at a level exceeding $75,000 .
”Education is a key focus of our corporate giving program and we are pleased to support Ducks Unlimited Canada in their efforts to promote environmental education and appreciation for the Prairie landscape,” said Jordan. “Supporting and encouraging community projects such as Brandon Riverbank Ponds is just one way that Monsanto can give back to the rural communities where we work and live.”
The Riverbank Centre is open year-round to provide outdoor education and recreation. “Bringing a greater awareness of the natural environment to our visitors, especially young people, is critical,” said Dr. John Everitt, President of Brandon Riverbank Inc. “We’re thrilled to have businesses like Monsanto step up and contribute to helping us maintain this unique facility.”
For more information:
Leigh Patterson, l_patterson@ducks.ca
Marketing and Communications
Ducks Unlimited Canada
Phone: (204) 467-3306
Trish Jordan
Public Affairs
Monsanto Canada
Phone: (204) 985-1005
