RBC Blue Water Project Makes $500,000 Donation to WWF-Canada's Living Rivers Initiative

FREDERICTON, NB, June 8, 2012 /CNW/ - The RBC Blue Water Project today announced a $500,000 grant for WWF-Canada's Living Rivers Initiative.

"The health of the Saint John River and the wildlife that depends on it will require a modern approach to water management plan that balances the needs of both nature and people," said Tony Maas, Freshwater Program Director, WWF-Canada. "RBC's contribution to our Living Rivers Initiative is funding our work to protect and restore the health of the Saint John, which we are carrying out in collaboration with a network of local partners and water stewards."

A major waterway connecting communities throughout western New Brunswick, Quebec and Maine, the Saint John River was selected as one of the first rivers in the country to benefit from the Living Rivers Initiative. RBC's donation will fund a series of projects to help raise awareness about freshwater issues, implement conservation efforts and develop community mobilization events along the river.

"We're very pleased to make a donation of this magnitude to WWF-Canada for their work along the Saint John River," said Colin Krulicki, regional vice-president, western New Brunswick, RBC. "As a leader in water stewardship, RBC understands just how important this waterway is to the clients and communities we serve in New Brunswick and we are proud to be associated with this initiative."

Local representatives, environmental organizations and community members were present for today's announcement events in Fredericton and Saint John.

About RBC Blue Water
The RBC Blue Water Project is a 10-year, $50 million philanthropic commitment to support organizations that are committed to watershed protection and providing access to clean drinking water. Since 2007, RBC has committed more than $33 million in single and multi-year grants to over 500 organizations worldwide. RBC is recognized among the world's financial, social and environmental leaders. In 2011, RBC contributed more than $98 million to community causes worldwide, through donations of more than $64 million, and an additional $34 million in sponsorship of community events and national organizations.

About WWF
WWF is creating solutions to the most serious conservation challenges facing our planet, helping people and nature thrive. wwf.ca.

Trish Vardy, RBC Royal Bank, Public Affairs Atlantic, [phone], [email protected]

Weiwei Su, Communications Specialist, WWF, [phone], [email protected]