Conservation lands contribute to clean water, healthy habitats and resilient communities

Eriksdale**, MB (December 19, 2025) **– The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is announcing the conservation of almost 1,000 hectares of important lands and waters.

Throughout Manitoba, nature conservation and community support one another. NCC is proud to announce a shining example of this in Manitoba’s Interlake Region, where endangered prairie grasslands, vital wetlands and resilient communities go hand in hand.

Working landscapes — areas often used for farming and ranching — are sometimes seen as separate from conservation. However, these landscapes are increasingly being recognized as essential habitats that animals and plants need to thrive.

Together, the Highland Meadowoods project, and an extension to the Swan Lake Wetland-Parkland Complex near Lundar, conserve more than 935 hectares (2,310 acres). These conservation projects provide habitat for wildlife, support clean water and protect native plant communities northwest of Winnipeg; all while continuing to support activities such as grazing, haying and hunting.

These projects are made possible through the support of the Government of Canada, through the Natural Heritage Conservation Program, part of Canada’s Nature Fund. NCC also thanks Jim and Leney Richardson, the Richardson Foundation, and the estates of Debbie Zibresky, A. Richard Omatsu and Joy E. Goodwin, who contributed to conserve these lands.

The lands added to the Swan Lake Wetland-Parkland Complex project had been managed by the Cruise family as a livestock operation for nearly 30 years, maintaining the ecological integrity of the land while supporting local livelihoods. Similarly, the Highland Meadowoods project, formerly under the care of the Laubstedt family, supported seasonal cattle grazing and forage production.

Tall grass prairie — one of the world’s most endangered ecosystems — has been maintained on both properties thanks to the relationship between responsibly managed livestock grazing and grassland ecosystem health. Prairie grasslands are vital to our planet’s health. They support diverse life and absorb carbon to increase resilience to climate change. Yet, we’re losing them fast: it is estimated that up to 90 per cent of Manitoba’s prairies are already gone.

Wetlands, such as those found on both properties, recharge and purify ground water, slow run-off, and hold water longer, mitigating flooding and drought impacts.

Forests located within these projects provide nesting cover, and feeding and breeding grounds for many birds, amphibians and mammals. The properties are home to several waterfowl species and species at risk, such as eastern whip-poor-will, least bittern and red-headed woodpecker.

**Quotes **

“As I get older l realize more and more how important it is to preserve some land so future generations can see it in [its] natural state. This land should never be bulldozed or disced but rotational livestock grazing should allow for preservation and wildlife habitat.” *– Jack Cruise, former property owner *

“The conservation of Swan Lake Wetland-Parkland Complex and Highland Meadowoods demonstrates how land use and environmental goals can go hand in hand. Through strong partnerships with governments, Indigenous Nations, local communities and industry leaders, we can create a network of resilient landscapes that nurture the species we love and support human well-being.” *– Kevin Teneycke, Regional Vice President, Nature Conservancy of Canada Manitoba Region *

“This announcement in Manitoba’s Interlake region highlights Canada’s commitment to protecting nature and mitigating climate change while recognizing the value of working landscapes. With the leadership of the Nature Conservancy of Canada and the support of local communities and partners, we are ensuring these lands will remain protected, sustaining biodiversity and continuing to provide benefits for generations to come.” – The Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of the Environment, Climate Change and Nature

“With the support of local communities, natural areas in Manitoba’s Interlake region are being protected to sustain wildlife, preserve ecosystems, and maintain the health of the land. This initiative highlights the importance of conserving prairie grasslands, wetlands, and forests.” – The Honourable Nathalie Provost, Secretary of State (Nature)

**Facts **

• This area is home to several rare and endangered species, including: bobolink, Dakota skipper, monarch, red-headed woodpecker, red-tailed leafhopper, trumpeter swan and yellow rail.
• It is estimated that up to 90 per cent of Manitoba’s Prairie grasslands no longer exist due to land conversion.
• Canada’s forests shelter more than 400 species at risk. Both projects straddle the transition between the prairie and boreal ecozones, supporting a mix of deciduous and mixed-woods forests. The boreal forest alone provides breeding grounds for three billion birds and homes for more than 85 mammal species.
• Covering an incredible 60 per cent of Canada’s land mass, the boreal forest is globally significant, holding the largest portion of Earth’s land-based carbon.

Find photos and video here:

• Swan Lake Wetland-Parkland
• Highland Meadowoods
• Video

**About **

Since 1962, the Nature Conservancy of Canada has brought people together to protect the lands and waters that sustain us all. 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.

The Government of Canada’s Natural Heritage Conservation Program (NHCP) is a unique partnership that supports the creation and recognition of protected and conserved areas through the acquisition of private land and private interest in land. To date, the Government of Canada has invested $500 million in the Program, which has been matched with more than $1 billion in contributions raised by Nature Conservancy of Canada, Ducks Unlimited Canada and the country’s land trust community leading to the protection and conservation of over 840,000 hectares of ecologically sensitive lands.

Contact Christine Chilton Director, Communications & Engagement, Manitoba Region C: 204-942-7416 christine.chilton@natureconservancy.ca