To mark the beginning of National Indigenous History Month, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, minister of Environment and Climate Change, today announced that the Government of Canada has designated Edéhzhíe as a National Wildlife Area, in addition to its status as a Dehcho Protected Area.
Edéhzhíe is a pristine area of the Northwest Territories that is important for the Dehcho First Nations people. It is a cultural sanctuary where the Dehcho Dene can return for spiritual nourishment, to reconnect and reconcile with the land. It is also a critical habitat for boreal caribou and wood bison, as well as an important bird area for waterfowl and other migratory birds.
This designation ensures that Edéhzhíe's lands, waters and biodiversity are permanently protected through the provisions of the Canada Wildlife Act and the Wildlife Area Regulations. Furthermore, the Government of the Northwest Territories has protected Edéhzhíe from any future mineral, oil, or gas exploration or development. To support these protections, the Government of Canada has contributed $10 million towards the Edéhzhíe Trust Fund to provide long-term funding for management of the area led by Dehcho First Nations. Check out this great video
