Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper speaks to supporters as he attends a BBQ in Caribou Crossing, Aug. 20, 2012.Adrian Wyld/The Canadian Press
A research facility that will study wetlands and waterfowl was officially opened today near the border of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper was among those in attendance at the Beaubassin Research Station in Aulac, N.B.
The facility is located in the Beausejour Marshes and is operated as a partnership between Acadia University, Irving Oil Ltd., and Ducks Unlimited Canada.
Ducks Unlimited president Tom Worden said the research station will allow conservationists to collaborate on wetland and waterfowl issues.
That includes research on salt marsh restoration as a buffer to high tides and storm surges.
"Our government is committed to working closely with a range of partners to ensure the responsible conservation of Canada's wetlands and waterfowl," Mr. Harper said in a statement. "It is gratifying that the Beaubassin area is starting this new and exciting chapter in its history."
Later today, Mr. Harper is scheduled to head to nearby Amherst, N.S., where he attends a barbecue for Conservative MP Scott Armstrong.