Decisions will soon be made about the future of the intact, boreal forests on the east side of Lake Winnipeg. We have one chance to get conservation right by creating a large, interconnected protected areas network that will serve as a model for the world, and show how wilderness and wildlife can be protected in union with sustainable community-driven economies.

Now is the time to forever protect the home of woodland caribou in the heart of Canada’s boreal — Manitoba’s east side. To achieve this, support must be provided for:

• Most of this boreal region becoming large, interconnected protected areas.
• Ecologically sustainable, community-driven economies.
• Manitoba government’s World Heritage Site commitment that grants First Nations land protection requests.
• Meaningful community consultations and community-based Lands Plans.
• First Nation consent before industrial development in traditional territories.

"Through the years, First Nation members have balanced the ecosystem and wildlife habitat. The government should recognize this by putting communities and nature first in all planning on the east side."

Herman Harper — University College of the North;
Regional Board of Director Member for St. Theresa Point First Nation

Existing and proposed expansion of industrial developments on Manitoba’s east side threaten the area’s ecological integrity and potential for sustainable economies. Conservation-based, community-led planning must be completed, and consent from aboriginal communities given in advance of considering industrial development proposals. Photo by Ron Smid.