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Bird rescuers get a charge out of BC Hydro

Utility donates funds to Mountainaire Avian Rescue Society
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Stephen Watson (left) and Karla Louwers (right)

BC Hydro boosted Mountainaire Avian Rescue Society's (MARS) budget with a $14,000 contribution.

The funding came in two parts. In the fall of 2012, MARS submitted a video entry to BC Hydro’s Community Champions program, which recognizes non-profit organizations that are making a positive difference through environmental leadership. Through public voting and judges’ selection MARS was one of five winners of the Community Champion program and awarded $10,000.

An additional $4,000 was provided as a donation to be directed towards the ongoing education programs MARS provide and upcoming Eaglefest, held at the Maritime Heritage Centre in Campbell River on Saturday.

BC Hydro’s involvement with MARS began in 1998 with a donation of a 4X4 vehicle to assist with wildlife rescue. Since this time, BC Hydro has contributed close to $60,000 to MARS.

“Mars provides a wonderful service for bird rehabilitation in our community, and because of their tremendous volunteer efforts, BC Hydro’s relationship with them goes back many years,” said BC Hydro’s Karla Louwers. “This has ranged from vehicle donations to annual donations, and for the eight consecutive year since its inception, a main sponsor for the Eagle Festival in Campbell River.”

“BC Hydro has been a valuable contributor to MARS” said Maj Birch, senior wildlife rehabilitator and manager of MARS. “We are extremely pleased they have offered support again this year.”

For more information on MARS and the upcoming Eaglefest visit their website at www.wingtips.org.