NCC to conserve critical habitat for endangered sage-grouse
Fundraising underway to conserve property in southeast Alberta home to sage-grouse and other at-risk grassland wildlife
The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is announcing a new initiative to conserve important habitat for Alberta’s endangered greater sage-grouse.
The urgency of sage-grouse conservation
Greater sage-grouse, a large bird found in grassland regions of southeastern Alberta and southwestern Saskatchewan, is one of Canada's most imperilled species.
Designated as endangered under Alberta's Wildlife Act and Canada's Species At Risk Act, sage-grouse are suffering from extensive habitat loss, among other threats. Since the late 1960s, their numbers have plummeted by over 90 per cent and their current distribution now covers less than 10 per cent of their historic range. Conserving remaining sage-grouse habitat is essential for their survival in Canada.
Maintaining sage-grouse habitat
Sagebrush Flats, a 635-hectare (1,569 acre) property located southeast of Medicine Hat, is part of NCC’s efforts to conserve Canada’s disappearing Prairie grasslands, one of the most threatened ecosystems on the planet. NCC is currently fundraising to purchase this property, as part of their Prairie Grasslands Action Plan, to conserve it in perpetuity while maintaining it as rangeland for local ranchers.
Conserving Sagebrush Flats holds critical significance for the survival of sage-grouse, as this area provides essential habitat for this endangered species. The property is situated among vast stretches of intact grassland, including adjacent Crown land, maintaining a connected landscape vital to Alberta’s remaining sage-grouse populations.
The conservation of Sagebrush Flats will complement adjacent conserved lands, which include NCC conservation agreements, further enhancing habitat connectivity and resilience of this large grassland ecosystem. This project, alongside efforts by other conservation organizations, is intended help ensure the long-term viability of sage-grouse populations in the region.
Helping sage-grouse benefits entire ecosystems
The significance of conserving Sagebrush Flats extends beyond sage-grouse. The property lies within the Sage Creek Important Bird Area, providing crucial habitat for numerous grassland bird species, one of the fastest declining groups of birds in Canada. Additionally, the property is home to other at-risk species such as burrowing owl (endangered), loggerhead shrike (threatened) and American badger (special concern). This area includes important habitat and movement corridors for pronghorn, a sensitive species in Alberta.
Building on habitat restoration measures
Another way NCC is working to help sage-grouse is by restoring habitat within its range. Through the Bell-Sage-Grouse Legacy Project, NCC acquired a conservation site within prime greater sage-grouse habitat. This 65-hectare property, once a fallow agricultural field, is undergoing rigorous restoration efforts in collaboration with other organizations. This effort has involved planting native species such as sagebrush and native grasses, controlling weeds, and mitigating threats such as human structures used by predators.
How people can help
NCC's Prairie Grasslands Action Plan represents an unprecedented opportunity for Canadians to contribute to conservation efforts. By rallying support, NCC aims to conserve over 500,000 hectares by 2030, a substantial area crucial for preserving biodiversity and ecosystem health. Your involvement will make a meaningful difference in securing the future of Canada's grasslands and the species that depend on them.
To support the Prairie Grasslands Action Plan and aid in the conservation of vital habitats like Sagebrush Flats, visit prairiegrasslands.ca . Those looking to support this project directly may contact alberta@natureconservancy.ca.
Quotes
“If we do not act to conserve our disappearing Prairie grasslands, we risk losing iconic species like the sage-grouse. Through ambitious conservation initiatives like Sagebrush Flats, we have an opportunity to secure a brighter future for these incredible ecosystems and the wildlife calling them home.” – Tom Lynch-Staunton, Regional Vice-President, Nature Conservancy of Canada
About
The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is the country’s unifying force for nature. NCC seeks solutions to the twin crises of rapid biodiversity loss and climate change through large-scale, permanent land conservation. As a trusted partner, NCC works with people, communities, businesses and government to protect and care for our country’s most important natural areas. Since 1962, NCC has brought Canadians together to conserve and restore more than 15 million hectares. To learn more, visit natureconservancy.ca.
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