Overview
- Environment and Climate Change Canada detailed funding for initiatives focused on natural climate solutions, species-at-risk partnerships, and community Guardians programs.
- $4.5 million is directed to 47 First Nations Guardians programs, with $900,000 going to six projects on Vancouver Island, including $175,000 for Tseshaht to add guardians and expand monitoring, patrols, and education.
- Malahat Nation receives $175,000 for a one-year project that brings Elders, guardians, and youth together for stewardship activities such as patrols, wildlife counts, and water and shellfish sampling.
- Twenty-two projects in British Columbia include Tsartlip First Nation Guardians asserting W̱SÁNEĆ jurisdiction, Nazko wetland restoration that analyzes carbon sequestration, and Nk'Mip work on wildfire impacts to snake habitat with youth engagement.
- Ottawa frames the investments as advancing UNDRIP implementation, creating meaningful jobs in remote communities, strengthening cultural connections, and supporting sustainable growth.