Lake Simcoe Conservation Foundation invites Friday Harbour developer to partner for environment

BARRIE, ON, June 28, 2012 /CNW/ - Lake Simcoe Conservation Foundation President Debby Beatty says she is pleased the developer of "Friday Harbour" has agreed to partner with the Foundation in its "Inspiring Greener Communities Program."

Geranium Corporation, the company behind Innisfil's "Friday Harbour" destination resort community, has pledged an initial $500,000 toward the partnership to help enhance the local environment.

"Friday Harbour is delighted to participate, and proud that we are the first developer to do so," says Earl Rumm, the chair of Geranium and the driving force behind the Friday Harbour resort.

"We share the goals of the Foundation and want to see their 'Inspiring Green Communities' program become a catalyst for environmental awareness in Simcoe and all around the lake," adds Rumm.

"We hope the support Friday Harbour has pledged to this partnership sets an example for other developers to follow," says Foundation President Debby Beatty.

Foundation Executive Director, Cheryl Taylor, also welcomes the support from Friday Harbour:

"Their commitment is an example of partnerships we want to encourage.  We recognize our population is growing at an unprecedented rate. We need to ensure there is balance and work together to achieve sustainable and low impact development and the continued creation and restoration of local trails and natural areas. When new residents move into their homes this program will provide them with local eco-friendly products and services. It will connect them to the Lake Simcoe watershed and enable them to become active partners in their environmental community."

"Our 'Inspiring Greener Communities' program will increase environmental awareness and opportunities for a healthier environment.  As our partnership with Friday Harbour demonstrates, it will also raise funds for critical environmental programs and projects in our beautiful watershed," concludes Beatty.

Since 1973, the Lake Simcoe Conservation Foundation has been raising funds for the environmental programs and projects of Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority; an international award winning leader in integrated watershed management. Working with all our partners extends the reach of our efforts beyond the shores of Lake Simcoe to each of the rivers and streams that flow into it. The Inspiring Greener Communities Program will help the Foundation achieve the vision so many of us share; protecting and restoring the Lake Simcoe watershed for future generations to enjoy.

Earl Rumm 416-494-5774 x 201
Cheryl Taylor 905-895-1281