Click here to read the full policy release.

EDMONTON, Alberta - August 21, 2011

 Progressive Conservative leadership candidate Ted Morton is pleased to announce a policy that takes yet another step toward putting "conservation" back into the meaning of "conservative". A Ted Morton government will create a new fund - Go Alberta Outdoors (GOAL) - to provide a stable, predictable revenue stream for new parks and recreation areas. "I strongly believe that Alberta needs a plan in place to pursue policies that enhance conservation and promote outdoor activity and healthier lifestyle choices for Albertans."

 Specifically, GOAL will help fund conservation priorities such as:

- the purchase of land for parks and protected areas
- the development, with the Capital Region municipalities, the River Valley Alliance and community groups, of the Ribbon of Green vision for the North Saskatchewan River Valley
- the proposed Woodbend/Big Island Natural Area, a potential anchor in the development of the Ribbon of Green
- support of Alberta's land trust organizations, including the Alberta Land Trust Alliance
- development of trails and outdoor recreational infrastructure

 GOAL will be funded by capturing 1% of annual provincial lottery revenues. One percent of lottery revenues (approx. $2 billion/year) would see the fund begin operating with about $20 million at its disposal. As priority capital projects are identified and costed, the percentage of lottery funds directed to GOAL would increase to 2% or about $40 million per year.

 "I know first-hand how protection of our natural capital strengthens our communities and provides yet another Alberta Advantage: people come to our province for our strong economy but end up staying because they fall in love with the land," said Ted.  

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 Media Inquiries:
Sam Armstrong
403-703-4752