The Nature Conservancy of Canada has announced a non-profit land conservation project near Grasslands National Park.
The project, Wideview Complex, provides habitat for animals that are registered under the federal Species at Risk Act.
Several species can be found at the conservatory, including birds such as Sprague’s pipit, ferruginous hawk, and chestnut-collared longspur. Other animals found at the habitat the northern leopard frog, and endangered animals such as the burrowing owl, the greater sage-grouse and threatened swift fox.
In celebration of the project, the Nature Conservancy of Canada and the Art Gallery of Regina are teaming up to create “Escaping Into Nature,” an immersive nature space that will educate the general public about Saskatchewan’s land and heritage.
“The Milk River Basin is an area where ranchers have maintained a productive habitat for several species at risk for generations,” Jennifer McKillop, the Nature Conservancy’s director of conservation, said in a news release.
“The securement of the Wideview Complex means future generations will be able to continue to enjoy this area.”
The Government of Canada provided $1 million in funding for the project through the Fish and Wildlife Development Fund, the Habitat Stewardship Program, and through the Natural Areas Conservation Program. The Saskatchewan government has also contributed nearly $1 million toward the project.