The Nature Trust of BC is launching a fundraising campaign to raise $1.5 million to protect 115.2 hectares (284.6 acres) of ecologically valuable habitat in northern BC.
The two properties, referred to as Crescent Spur and Cranberry Marsh-West, are located within the traditional territory of both the Simpcw and Lheildli T’enneh First Nations near Prince George.
The non-profit land conservation organization says conserving these sensitive areas will benefit both biodiversity and climate, due to the natural carbon-absorbing potential of old-growth forests, wetlands, and riparian ecosystems.
The Nature Trust of BC says it and the province are forging meaningful and collaborative land stewardship initiatives with the First Nations, rooted in a deep appreciation for the unique cultural and ecological significance of the lands, to preserve and protect their existing ecological integrity for future generations.
The Crescent Spur property is comprised of three parcels totalling 76.9 hectares (190 acres) of land and located 55 km northwest of McBride and within the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George. The property includes ancient inland forest, with trees older than 1,000 years, and rare riparian ecosystems.
Cranberry Marsh-West contains 38.3 hectares (94.6 acres) of wetlands as well as low shrub and grass ecosystems with pockets of forest. It is located approximately 292 km southeast of Prince George, within the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George.
It has a hot and dry climate and provides habitat for several species of wildlife, including the endangered black swift and the special concern western toad.
