BC Launches $300 Million Conservation Finance Tool with First Nations Led-Measures at the Forefront

A new $300 million conservation financing tool launched by the Province today aims to accelerate the protection of BC’s forests and landscapes.

Half of the funding is being invested immediately by the Province, while the other half will be raised and contributed by the BC Parks Foundation.

Through the new fund, the province aims to better combat climate change, conserve critical habitats, and further protect Old Growth forests.

It will support First Nations-led measures, capacity building for First Nations, stewardship and guardian programs, and long-term environmental protections.

Managed by the BC Parks Foundation, the fund will be administered by an expert committee, of which half the members will be First Nations.

In addition to the fund, the Province is announcing five new Forest Landscape Plans in partnership with local Nations.

Northern locations include the Bulkley Valley, 100 Mile House, and Williams Lake, where they will replace existing forest stewardship plans.