MHC Receives Historic Funding for Conservation Work
In the summer of 2024, Manitoba Habitat Conservancy (MHC) received the largest single financial boost in the organization’s history – $6.1 million from the Canadian federal government’s Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund (NSCSF). This funding enabled the Conservancy to undertake its most significant project yet, the conservation of approximately 1,200 hectares of land.
For years, MHC has strived to be a leader in conserving Manitoba’s wetlands, grasslands, and forests. This new investment allows the organization to expand its existing efforts, making an even greater impact on the province’s natural landscapes.
“We are truly thankful for this historic investment by the Government of Canada,” said Stephen Carlyle, CEO at Manitoba Habitat Conservancy. “It enables us to take bold actions in conserving a considerable area of land. Securing these 1,200 hectares isn’t just about preserving nature, it’s also about ensuring future generations can enjoy and benefit from our natural heritage.”
This substantial funding will support diverse conservation initiatives at MHC. The organization will focus on securing agreements with private landowners and implementing practices designed to protect critical habitats. Priority areas include grasslands, riparian zones, and wetlands—ecosystems essential for wildlife habitat, climate stability, nutrient reduction, and the overall health of Manitoba’s lakes and beaches.
MHC prides itself on being a community-driven organization, and this funding presents exciting new opportunities for collaboration. By partnering with private landowners, MHC aims to foster a shared commitment to conservation, turning landowners into active partners dedicated to preserving Manitoba’s natural landscapes for people and wildlife alike.
Protecting these carbon-rich ecosystems will significantly contribute to combating climate change through greenhouse gas sequestration. Additionally, preserving these areas will enhance biodiversity, offering crucial habitats to many species, including those at risk. This initiative underscores the increasing recognition of nature-based solutions as essential tools for addressing human-caused environmental challenges.
MHC remains deeply committed to its mission: delivering diverse habitat conservation programs in partnership with communities and governments. Support from the NSCSF highlights the powerful outcomes achievable through collective effort.
Equally important is recognizing the many dedicated individuals who make this vital work possible, from the behind-the-scenes team members to the hardworking field staff across southern Manitoba. With this unprecedented funding, MHC is eager to continue protecting Manitoba’s natural beauty, ensuring it remains a source of inspiration and ecological well-being for generations to come.
