Feds to protect species at risk habitat in the greater Redberry Lake Biosphere Reserve area

Wetlands and pastures located in the greater Redberry Lake Biosphere Reserve area. Photo credit: Redberry Lake Biosphere Reserve (CNW Group/Environment and Climate Change Canada)

OTTAWA — The Government of Canada announced an investment of $402,400 over three years to conserve and restore habitat for species at risk in the greater Redberry Lake Biosphere Reserve area.

Located in West-Central Saskatchewan on the traditional lands of the Métis, Mistawasis Nêhiyawak, and Muskeg Lake Cree Nation, the habitat spans 112,000 hectares and supports many species, including twenty-two listed species at risk, such as the piping plover and the bobolink.

“By collaborating with partners on projects like this one, we are working to conserve and restore wildlife habitat and ensure the survival of our species at risk,” said Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, in a prepared statement. “The on-the-ground work led by the Redberry Lake Biosphere Reserve, in Saskatchewan, with guidance from the Mistawasis Nêhiyawak and Muskeg Lake Cree Nation, showcases what can be achieved for Canada’s biodiversity through collaboration and dedication.”

The project, funded by the Canada Nature Fund’s Community-Nominated Priority Places for Species at Risk program and led by the Redberry Lake Biosphere Reserve, aims to conserve and restore native prairie and shoreline habitat. Guided by a blended knowledge approach, which incorporates western science and traditional knowledge shared by elders, the project works to promote knowledge transfer on species at risk as well as develop and implement a long-term management plan for their protection and their habitat.