Jasper National Park Caribou Breeding Program Presses On Despite Wildfire Setback

The $40-million captive breeding centre aims to replenish the park's dwindling herds, with completion expected by Christmas despite extensive fire damage.

• This summer's wildfire severely damaged the site designated for the caribou breeding centre, burning much of the forest and infrastructure.
• Parks Canada is building a highly managed facility to house up to 40 female and 5 male caribou, aiming to produce enough calves to sustain Jasper's herds within a decade.
• While the barn and office buildings were spared, significant restoration efforts are underway to repair fencing, feeders, and electrical systems.
• Vegetation restoration is a priority to ensure suitable habitat conditions for caribou, with replanting of trees and sowing of native plant seeds already in progress.
• The project has garnered international attention as a pioneering effort in conservation breeding for caribou, a species with complex habitat needs.

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