Save Boreal Birds

A report by BirdLife International reveals the shocking decline of common North American birds. The boreal forest has been identified as a trouble area for well-known species including the boreal chickadee. The drop in populations stems from habitat degradation and loss caused primarily by industrial activities such as logging and oil and gas.

The Manitoba government needs to blow some wind under its wings by living up to its high-flying talk about large-scale protection of our precious boreal forests or many of our treasured bird’s songs will become silent.

The proposed Fisher Bay provincial park located on the south west basin of Lake Winnipeg is a haven for many boreal birds. Permanent protection of this area would be a great start to stopping the alarming decline of our winged friends.

Manitobans want this park as evidenced by over 9000 letters to Premier Doer asking for permanent protection of the 160,000 ha area as proposed by local community Fisher River Cree Nation. Since the area was nominated for protection, many local communities have also issued formal support for Fisher River’s request. In addition, Liberal Leader Jon Gerard and NDP MLA Bill Blaikie have also given their thumbs up for safeguarding the area in its natural state.

The Manitoba government needs to get off its sedentary perch and make this 160,000 ha boreal wilderness a fully protected provincial park. This action will show Manitobans that our elected officials can do more than talk the talk about boreal forest conservation. Before we lose all faith in their promises, they have the chance to soar like an eagle by establishing the Fisher Bay provincial park for future generations of people and wildlife.

ACT NOW to preserve the lands and waters of Fisher Bay for future generations

Read the special report – Ochiwasahow: The Fisher Bay Area