ST. THOMAS, ONTARIO, – The Government of Canada is investing in a project that will help build a new energy efficient facility and re-introduce a species of tropical fish for pet stores. The investment of $250,000 for Catfish Creek Tropical Fish Hatchery was announced today by Member of Parliament for Elgin-Middlesex-London Joe Preston, on behalf of Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz.

“Our Government not only helps rural companies expand but we are helping them expand by using environmentally friendly practices,” said MP Preston. “Catfish Creek Tropical Fish Hatchery will use this targeted investment to build a new facility with solar power and top of the line heating systems, integrating the latest green technology in their small business.”

Catfish Creek Tropical Fish Hatchery was established in 1997, breeding and raising tropical fish for wholesale pet stores and wholesalers in the Greater Toronto Area. The company will use the funding to build a 4500 square foot facility in St. Thomas to expand production by 230%. The new building, which will use increased insulation, sub-floor heating and solar power to operate, is being designed and built using local companies in Elgin County.

This capital loan is being provided through the Sand Plains Community Development Fund administered by the Ontario Association of Community Futures Development Corporations. The fund targets community-based initiatives that support regional development, attract and retain people and investment, and stimulate business development and job creation.

For more information on the Sand Plains Community Development Fund, please visit www.ontcfdc.com or www.sandplains.ca.