Stewardship Association of Municipalities Areas, NL

Other Effective area-based Conservation Measure (OECM)

Newfoundland and Labrador is home to stunning natural landscapes and a rich variety of wildlife. Across the province, diverse ecosystems provide essential habitats and support species at risk.

The Stewardship Association of Municipalities (SAM) Inc. is committed to protecting this biodiversity through land conservation and habitat restoration. In partnership with the Eastern Habitat Joint Venture (EHJV), the provincial government, and local municipalities, SAM helps prevent development on ecologically important lands within municipal boundaries, allowing wildlife and native vegetation to thrive.

When significant ecosystems are identified, SAM works with interested municipalities to facilitate the signing of Habitat Conservation Agreements with the Wildlife Division of the Provincial government. These agreements represent a formal commitment by both parties with jurisdiction over land to conserving vital habitats and protecting biodiversity. Together, these efforts ensure that important natural areas remain healthy and resilient for generations to come.

To date, four conservation sites established through SAM’s efforts have been submitted to the Canadian Protected and Conserved Areas Database (CPCAD), marking an important step forward in recognizing and safeguarding Newfoundland and Labrador’s most valuable ecosystems.

SAM continues to collaborate with partners to protect the province’s unique and beautiful natural spaces, one habitat at a time.

Download the PDF information sheet.

How do we know that the Stewardship Association of Municipalities Areas are OECMs?

Does the property have a defined geographical space?

Yes! The boundaries of the Stewardship Association of Municipalities (SAM) conservation areas are well identified and can be accurately placed on a map.

Is there an effective way of ensuring that biodiversity will continue to be conserved into the future?

Yes! SAM works closely with the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, and partnering municipalities to identify important wildlife habitats within municipalities and encourages them to conserve these significant ecosystems. Conserving these areas helps to maintain biodiversity in these communities for generations to come.

Is there an expectation that the biodiversity on the site will be conserved for the long term?

Yes! The majority of municipal Habitat Conservation Agreements do not have a fixed end date. They are in place all year without any time restrictions. For this agreement to be reversed, both the provincial and municipal governments would have to agree with the decision, along with the public, through consultation.

Is biodiversity conservation the primary objective of the area?

Yes! The intent of SAM Conservation Agreements are to conserve significant wildlife habitats, and to prevent development within these habitats. This ensures that important ecosystems, and biodiversity are conserved throughout the province for generations to come.

Is biodiversity on the site conserved?

Yes! By bringing together the public, municipalities and the province, SAM identifies high priority biodiversity areas and builds partnerships that prevent development to occur on these sites. A map of the sites can be found at samnl.org.

Tagged OECM