A remarkable landscape at risk: The inspiring conservation efforts of Last Mountain Neighbours: Across the Fence for Common Sense
Last Mountain Lake, SK (Photo by Rob Dufty)
Congratulations to Last Mountain Neighbours: Across the Fence for Common Sense (LMN), in partnership with Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC). On May 15, 2024, the 12 LMN members were honoured with the Regional Centre of Expertise (RCE) Award of Achievement in Education for Sustainable Development. Their project, “A Collaborative Approach to Conserving a Prairie Oasis in the Upper Qu’Appelle Valley,” highlights their dedication to raising awareness and funds for the conservation of Last Mountain Lake Project 1.
Heather and Steve Mazurak, on behalf of Last Mountain Neighbours: Across the Fence for Common Sense, are being presented with the Regional Centre of Expertise on Education for Sustainable Development Award by the Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan, the Honourable Russ Mirasty (Provided)
Last Mountain Lake is a special place for people to explore and spend time in nature. However, the remarkable shorelines, valley slopes and prairie uplands here are at risk of disappearing forever. Thanks to the combined efforts of NCC and LMN, 41 hectares of natural prairie habitat, including healthy grasslands and riparian areas in the Upper Qu’Appelle Valley, will be conserved. Located between the Resort Village of Pelican Pointe and Sun Dale Resort, this property is home to many different species, including those at-risk such as northern leopard frog, bobolink, horned and western grebe, Sprague’s pipit and little brown myotis.
Over-development threatens ecosystems on many shores throughout Canada, including other areas adjacent to Last Mountain Lake. It can lead to fragmented habitats and water quality issues that impact animals and people alike. Through thoughtful consideration, a balance between humans and nature can be found. Keeping the province’s grasslands, rivers and lakes healthy benefits the wildlife and people that depend on them.
Last Mountain Lake, SK (Photo by Rob Dufty)
The Last Mountain Lake project was initiated in January 2021 when residents of Pelican Pointe became aware of a proposal for a large development on the property now known as Last Mountain Lake 1. Twelve concerned citizens began to meet on a regular basis to discuss whether the area was suitable for sustainable development, and the impact on the native flora and fauna. LMN was launched, a website with an online petition was created (lmna.ca) and signs were placed along roadways. LMN reached out to their neighbours and various government offices to voice their concerns. Research was gathered, and LMN conferred with the Rural Municipality, conservation groups and their First Nations neighbours to examine the most responsible course of action. In February 2024, a Town Hall meeting was held at the Silton Community Centre to kick-off fundraising efforts to purchase and steward the property.
“Thank you for being part of a community who values nature,” says Cameron Wood, NCC’s regional director in Saskatchewan. “Your support plays a vital role as we continue to fundraise to protect Last Mountain Lake Project 1 — a beautiful place to explore and spend time in nature. As you know, the world is facing the twin crises of biodiversity loss and climate change, and these threats demand urgent solutions. Canada’s Prairie grasslands store billions of tonnes of carbon, provide protection from flooding and drought, and help purify our water. We’re rallying people and communities to care for this vital, endangered ecosystem. Your support will secure and restore Last Mountain Lake Project 1, protect species at risk, and help improve the quality of our air and water. Together, we can make a lasting impact, securing a thriving environment for generations to come.” To donate, visit conservegrasslands.ca.
