British Columbia
Despite leading other jurisdictions in area-based targets and ecological representation, British Columbia has not adequately protected the region where most of the province’s at-risk species live.
© Shutterstock / Danita Delmont
British Columbia serves as an example of how carefully protected area planning can and should be applied. The province is a leader in both area-based targets and ecological representation. Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Heritage Site and the Great Bear Rainforest – home to the Kermode Bear – are both well-represented within the province’s protected area network. However, there are still key zones – such as climate refuges and the Okanagan region – that should be prioritized to safeguard wildlife both now and in the future.
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©Sshutterstock / Max Lindenthaler
Regional Spotlight
Though the Okanagan is home to many at-risk species – like the pallid bat and desert nightsnake – expanding development has added even more pressure to habitats that are either inadequately or not at all protected.
