Clean water in Edmonton starts with land conservation upstream

**Edmonton, AB (December 9, 2025) **– The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) has secured a crucial conservation area along the North Saskatchewan River thanks to a generous land donation by Edmonton resident Ken Casey.

Named after the donor, the Casey Forest property is more than 39 hectares and about 40 kilometres southwest of Edmonton, near Genesee Lake. Conserving this area protects a diverse wetland habitat that provides clean water sources to nearby communities.

The Casey Forest property adds to a growing network of conserved lands along the North Saskatchewan River, a key waterway for people and ecosystems in central Alberta and further downstream. It lies within three kilometres of two other NCC projects, together protecting nearly 106 hectares of forest and adjoining shoreline. This network helps create resilient landscapes by connecting natural areas, allowing wildlife to move freely and ecosystems to stay healthy over time.

A thriving forest makes for a clean glass of water

The property’s forest habitat is largely untouched (“intact,” in scientific terms), with a biodiversity index between 90 and 95 per cent, according to the Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute. This means that a high number and wide variety of species are present in the area. Forests like this filter rain and snowmelt before they reach the river, helping ensure healthy water for people and wildlife downstream. These areas also serve as key travel corridors for animals moving between habitats along the river.

Nature lover’s respite

For Casey, the newly conserved forest provided a meditative escape from city life. He found himself a careful observer of the forest, diligent not to disturb his furry and feathered neighbours. Over multiple decades, he treaded lightly on the grounds and kept projects minimal and mindful. His legacy of stewardship has been impressive, and NCC is grateful for his efforts and will continue to work in this spirit.

NCC wishes to thank Casey for making this meaningful contribution in a crucial area. Key donors and partners came together to make this project possible, including Cenovus Energy via the Conserving Critical Wetlands Program. A portion of this project was donated to the Nature Conservancy of Canada under the Government of Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program. This program provides enhanced tax incentives for individuals or corporations who donate ecologically significant land.

Quotes

“Casey Forest is not just about trees; it connects to the complex waterways that sustain us all, helping ensure water is clean and secure for communities and people. Through his generous donation and decades of dedication to keeping the land intact, Ken Casey has contributed to a growing network of conservation areas in a key region that will support generations to come.” – Tom Lynch-Staunton, Regional Vice-President, Nature Conservancy of Canada

“When I left my high-stress job and walked into the forest, I felt that I was leaving the modern world behind. I walked into a world that was planned and evolved by nature … I would watch in admiration.” – Ken Casey, land donor

“Thanks to Edmonton resident Ken Casey’s generous land donation through the Ecological Gifts Program, 39 hectares of mixed wood forest along the North Saskatchewan River in Alberta is now conserved with the Nature Conservancy of Canada, protecting clean water and natural spaces for local communities.” – The Honourable Nathalie Provost, Secretary of State (Nature)

“As we celebrate 30 years of the Ecological Gifts Program, the Government of Canada is proud to support the conservation of 39 hectares of intact mixed wood forest in Alberta. With the Nature Conservancy of Canada, we are helping connect natural areas, safeguard wildlife, and protect clean water sources for nearby communities. Thanks to the generosity of Edmonton resident Ken Casey, who donated the land through the Ecological Gifts Program, this area stretching along the North Saskatchewan River will remain permanently protected.” – The Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of the Environment, Climate Change and Nature

Quick facts

**Habitat: **The property is covered by mixedwood forest, with spruce, poplar and aspen trees. The understory is dominated by willow and alder, which provide food and shelter for moose, porcupines, birds and amphibians.

Wildlife: Alberta records show three species of raptors of concern in Alberta within one kilometre of the property:

• Peregrine falcon (at risk and threatened under the Alberta Wildlife Act): The fastest bird on Earth, recovering from pesticide-related declines.

• Barred owl (sensitive): Recognizable by its “Who cooks for you?” call, it prefers mature forests and is vulnerable to habitat loss and fragmentation.

• American kestrel (sensitive): North America’s smallest falcon, declining numbers in Parkland and Prairie ecozones.

**Ecological importance: **Casey Forest falls within a provincial Environmentally Significant Area, meaning it is important for conserving wildlife, natural landforms and the natural processes that keep ecosystems functioning. The property supports biodiversity, provides key wildlife habitat, and helps maintain clean water and healthy ecosystems for the region.

About

Since 1962, the Nature Conservancy of Canada has brought people together to protect the lands and waters that sustain us all. As an environmental charity working hand in hand with communities, Indigenous Nations, governments and businesses, we deliver nature-based solutions at a scale no one else can. Our conservation work safeguards clean air and water, stores carbon and reduces the risks of floods and wildfires — protecting our health, strengthening local economies and building more resilient communities. Together, we unlock nature’s power, so life can thrive. Learn more at natureconservancy.ca.

About the Ecological Gifts Program: Canada’s Ecological Gifts Program provides a way for Canadians with ecologically sensitive land to protect nature and leave a legacy for future generations. Made possible by the terms of the Income Tax Act of Canada and the Quebec Taxation Act, it offers significant tax benefits to landowners who donate land or a partial interest in land to a qualified recipient. Recipients ensure that the land’s biodiversity and environmental heritage are conserved in perpetuity.

To learn more about the Ecological Gifts Program, visit canada.ca/ecological-gifts.

Find photos here.****