The Nature Conservancy of Canada is working to protect part of the Qu’Appelle valley.
The not-for-profit bought 280-acres of marshland, trees and grasslands just upstream of Pasqua Lake. It is within the Aspen Parkland ecoregion, an area of national importance because of its high biodiversity.
Aspen Parklands are ecologically significant as they represent the transition from open grasslands to true forest. They provide habitat for iconic Canadian wildlife, such as moose, deer, beaver, red fox and many migratory birds.
“I want to congratulate the Nature Conservancy of Canada and their partners on the conservation of 113 hectares of important wildlife habitat in the biodiversity-rich Aspen Parklands, said Minister of Environment and Climate Change Catherine McKenna.
“Our government provides support through the Natural Areas Conservation Program to protect Canada’s biodiversity and species at risk for now and into the future.”
Aspen Parklands is also a draw for vacationers, and the site will protect the Pasqua Lake area that many people enjoy for recreation.
“Walking through the Pasqua Lake property feels like taking a step back in time. You can stand still in the valley and admire wildflowers and songbirds and the rolling landscape. This natural transition allows for a great diversity of wildlife to exist within the area.”
“As a charitable organization, NCC’s work couldn’t be done without the support of our donors. Our donors and partners help NCC ensure that our natural spaces, and the species they sustain, are protected,” NCC’s program director for central Saskatchewan Cameron Wood said.
This is also a way to protect land that can be used for camping and other outdoor activities.