Led by First Nations, the corridor aims to improve ecological and cultural connectivity along the west coast of Vancouver Island
Ecological corridors are key in curbing biodiversity loss and helping species adapt to climate change. By properly linking protected and conserved areas, natural processes can take place and species can move, interact, and find habitat across vast landscapes and seascapes.
Today, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, together with Chief Gordon Planes, T'Sou-ke First Nation, announced a shared commitment to support the Indigenous-led Westcoast Stewardship Corridor and to preserve the biodiversity of Vancouver Island, ensuring its longevity for future generations.
The Indigenous-led Westcoast Stewardship Corridor is a collaborative initiative among local First Nations on Vancouver Island that is aimed at restoring healthy relationships with the land, waters, plants, animals, people, and Creator and is grounded in the Nuu-chah-nulth guiding principles of Hishuk'ish tsawalk (interconnectedness), Uu-a-thluk (the responsibility to take care of), Łisaak (respect for all things living and non-living), and the Coast Salish principle of Naut'sa mawt (together as one).
The Indigenous-led Westcoast Stewardship Corridor, funded in part by the Parks Canada National Program for Ecological Corridors as a pilot project, is founded on the vision of bringing together Indigenous and non-Indigenous land and water stewards across the west coast of Vancouver Island to collaborate, share knowledge, and plan for greater ecological, cultural, spiritual, and economic connectivity. It also aligns with the Government of Canada's commitment to collaborate with Indigenous partners, stakeholders, and other levels of government to protect and restore biodiversity in both terrestrial and marine environments across Canada to help species adapt to and offset the effects of climate change.
The Government of Canada is committed to reconciliation and renewed relationships with Indigenous peoples who are the original stewards of the lands and waters, based on a recognition of rights, respect, collaboration, and partnership.
