Nearly 1,600 acres of land in southern Saskatchewan’s Cypress Uplands Natural Area are now under protection, following the Nature Conservancy of Canada’s latest acquisition announced on Oct. 15.
The 1,596-acre Upper Bone Creek property adds to existing NCC conservation sites in the region, further protecting native grasslands, creeks, and forests that support moose, elk, and endangered birds such as Sprague’s pipit and bobolink.
NCC Saskatchewan Acting Director of Conservation Michael Burak said the project strengthens habitat resilience and benefits both wildlife and local ranchers. Managed cattle grazing, he added, helps maintain grassland diversity and prevents invasive species from spreading.
The project was made possible through the partnership of the former landowner, who donated part of the property’s value, along with support from the Government of Canada’s Natural Heritage Conservation Program, Cenovus Energy’s Conserving Critical Wetlands Program, and the Saskatchewan Fish and Wildlife Development Fund.
Environment and Climate Change Minister Julie Dabrusin said such efforts help protect important habitats for species at risk while building a more resilient environment.
The acquisition supports NCC’s Prairie Grasslands Action Plan, which aims to conserve 500,000 hectares of grasslands by 2030, enhancing biodiversity and climate resilience.
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