.....At the heart of the Boreal Wildlands project lies the preservation of biodiversity. The NCC recognizes the Boreal region as a vital habitat for countless species, including the iconic caribou, wolves, bears, and over 300 bird species.....
Earlier this year Kristyn Ferguson, Program Director – Large Landscapes, Ontario Region at the Nature Conservancy of Canada gave a presentation to Wahkohtowin and our owner communities Lands and Resources departments about conservation collaboration opportunities. You can watch the presentation on Wahkohtowin’s Youtube channel here: https://youtu.be/1xcZ9xeLdOI
In an era of rapidly advancing development and urbanization, the importance of protecting our natural landscapes has become increasingly vital. The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC), a leading environmental non-government organization, has been at the forefront of preserving and safeguarding some of Canada's most precious ecosystems. One of their endeavors is the Boreal Wildlands project, a monumental conservation initiative that aims to protect and sustain the sprawling wilderness of Canada's Boreal region. Since August 2022 this project has put into conservation 147,000 hectares of Boreal Forest in the Hearst area.
At the heart of the Boreal Wildlands project lies the preservation of biodiversity. The NCC recognizes the Boreal region as a vital habitat for countless species, including the iconic caribou, wolves, bears, and over 300 bird species. By acquiring and managing conservation lands, the NCC aims to protect these habitats and ensure the survival of these unique and fragile ecosystems for generations to come.
The NCC uses a holistic approach to conservation, focusing not only on land acquisition but also on sustainable land management. Recognizing the deep connection Indigenous peoples have with the land, the NCC has actively engaged in collaboration with Indigenous communities throughout the Boreal Wildlands project. By incorporating traditional knowledge and fostering partnerships, the NCC aims to ensure that conservation efforts respect and support Indigenous rights, cultural practices, and traditional land management techniques.
Since the initiation of the Boreal Wildlands project, the NCC has made significant strides in protecting vast stretches of land in the Boreal region. Through their efforts, critical habitats have been conserved, wildlife populations have thrived, and carbon sinks have been preserved, aiding in the fight against climate change. Looking ahead, the NCC aims to expand their conservation efforts, engage more Indigenous communities, and raise public awareness about the importance of preserving the Boreal forest. Through collaboration and commitment, the NCC continues to inspire and lead the way in protecting our natural heritage for future generations.
Author: Isabelle Allen - Wahkohtowin's Project Forester