Photo Credit: The Nature Trust of BC

By Sam Bennison

Conservation

The Nature Trust of BC begins final push to buy Ferguson Lake-Wetlands by mid-April

Apr 1, 2024 | 1:08 PM

PRINCE GEORGE— The Nature Trust of B.C. has begun their final push to fundraise the remaining $450,000 needed before mid-April to protect The Ferguson Lake-Wetlands. The 129.2 hectares(319 acres) of land is host to old-growth riparian, wetland, and coniferous forest ecosystems.

Photo Credit: The Nature Trust of BC

Sitting on the traditional territory of the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation, Ferguson Lake-Wetland is vital habitat for wildlife particularly waterfowl. The parcel is an area of continental significance under the North American Waterfowl Management Plan and home to two species that are at risk of extinction: the Barn Swallow and the Evening Grosbeak.The Ferguson Lake-Wetlands provides breeding, nesting, and feeding groups for these species.

“These wetland and riparian ecosystems are powerful carbon sinks that provide nature-based solutions to climate change. Waterfowl and shorebirds count on these breeding and migration habitats that we share with the Pacific Flyway. We are committed to protecting this critical habitat. Birds depend on it. And people too.” explains Dr. Jasper Lament, CEO of The Nature Trust of BC.

Additionally the land is adjacent to the Ferguson Lake Conservation Area, a 31 hectare plot of land owned by The Nature Trust of B.C. With the purchase of the Ferguson Lake-Wetlands, there will be a 160 hectare wildlife corridor that will back onto the provincial crown land allowing for more connectivity within the region.

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“Ferguson Lake-Wetlands provides habitat for some of Canada’s most iconic species, like Grizzly Bear, Moose, and Canada Lynx – wildlife and land that is so close to our hearts. With the support of generous donors we can protect this wildlife habitat while helping Canada protect 30 per cent of our land by 2030,” continues Dr. Jasper Lament. “The purchase of the Ferguson Lake-Wetlands will support The Nature Trust of BC’s mission to protect British Columbia’s most important and vulnerable ecosystems to benefit biodiversity and mitigate climate change.”

The Nature Trust of BC says if they can raise the funds by mid-April, the land will be conserved, ensuring its old-growth forests and wildlife can be protected in perpetuity.

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Email: sam.bennison@pattisonmedia.com