Protected Areas Examples
Not just government parks!
Many Canadians associate protected areas with federal, provincial or territorial parks. But they may not realize that many areas protected by private citizens, organizations or local governments are protected areas when they conserve their lands specifically for nature. While both protected areas and OECMs conserve biodiversity, protected areas have biodiversity conservation as their primary objective.
As Canadians, we are privileged to enjoy a country rich in natural spaces. As the second largest nation in the world, Canada has vast, healthy natural areas. Over millennia, these spaces have been inextricably connected to the cultures and livelihoods of First Nations, Inuit and Metis Peoples. These connections still hold true today and resonate with all who call Canada home.
Protected areas safeguard ecosystems and wildlife habitat, help mitigate the effects of climate change, help us adapt to the effects of climate change, provide us with ecosystem services (such as clean water and air), provide opportunities for tourism and recreation, and foster healthy connections with nature that improve the quality of our lives.
Are there protected areas opportunities near you?
Protected Areas Examples
There are over 12,000 Protected Areas recognized in Canada that have mechanisms in place to protect biodiversity.
If you have a protected area example to share, please contact ercataloguepw@ec.gc.ca
