An environmental organization has announced a groundbreaking agreement with the federal government, British Columbia authorities, and various public and private entities to safeguard 45,000 hectares of timberland in the province, equivalent to 450 square kilometers.
The Nature Conservancy of Canada revealed that this initiative marks one of the largest private land conservation endeavors in the nation’s history and will contribute to an interconnected network of protected areas in the Rockies extending into Montana.
Situated within the Ktunaxa Nation’s homelands in southeastern British Columbia, the conserved area, known as Kootenay Forest Lands, encompasses high-elevation grasslands housing a rare and endangered ecosystem. It features old-growth forests, 930 kilometers of streams, and serves as vital habitat for various species including grizzly bears, whitebark pine, bull trout, and bighorn sheep.
Among the key partners involved in this conservation effort is Elk Valley Resources, a subsidiary of Glencore engaged in coal mining operations in the valley. The agreement has received endorsement from the Ktunaxa Nation.
Federal Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin praised the project, highlighting its significance in aligning with Canada’s objectives of nature preservation and greenhouse gas emission reduction.