Priority Sensitive Ecosystems for Conservation in the Bulkley Nechako
Project Reference Number: 2010-10
Project Status: Active
Led by: Adrian de Groot, Drosera Ecological Consulting, Smithers
Funded by: Wetzin'kwa Community Forest Corporation
There is increasing demand for residential, agricultural, and recreational development property in northern valleys, particularly along water bodies and near towns. However, there is little or no mapping, ranking or prioritizing of sensitive and endangered ecosystems to help guide developers and government decision makers on appropriate land use and zoning. A digital map layer consolidating, ranking, and prioritizing sensitive ecosystems and associated wildlife habitats is critical for designing developments areas and guidelines that are in harmony with, and not at the expense of, wildlife habitat and environmental capital. The objectives of this project are to map, rank and prioritize sensitive and endangered ecosystems in the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako (RDBN) and to extend this information to governments for more sustainable development strategies (i.e. through zoning and bylaws to maintain ecosystems while promoting efficient and low-impact developments, land use planning and crown land tenuring). RDBN has identified a need to acquire this mapping as a priority and has offered in-kind support.
The primary goal of the project is to protect important sensitive ecosystems and associated important wildlife habitat in the RDBN. The focus is on high-risk grasslands, wetlands, and fluvial deposits (floodplains and fans). There are four phases or objectives planned for the project:
- Map the sensitive ecosystems and associated wildlife habitats of the project area at a scale of 1:20,000,
- Establish a priority conservation ranking for the sensitive ecosystems and associated wildlife habitats,
- Determine the high priority sensitive ecosystems and associated wildlife habitats for conservation or development direction in the project area and conduct field verification, and
- Assist the RDBN and Ministry of Environment in establishing land designations and zoning that protect the environmental values and wildlife habitats of the high priority sensitive areas in the project area. Provide access to this information for the provincial government, First Nations and non-profit environmental groups.
The community will benefit through the benefits of having important habitats available for wildlife use near communities. These areas are also important for recreation such as trails through natural areas. It is increasingly being recognized that having natural areas near communities increases the livability of communities and the well-being of its residents.