As World Wetlands Day approaches, the B.C. Wildlife Federation’s Watershed Team wants to revitalize the role of wetlands in sustaining water supply, biodiversity, climate change mitigation, and cultural heritage.  

“This year’s World Wetland’s Day celebrates the relationship that people have had with wetlands throughout time. Our interdependence is both beautiful and fragile. And the 2024 campaign spotlights the urgency with which we need to act in order to preserve and restore these richly biodiverse ecosystems that underpin human wellbeing.” – World Wetlands Day

Our Team in Action:  

In 2023, our BCWF Watershed team was deeply committed to the conservation of British Columbia’s wetlands. Collaborating with over 30 First Nations and 40 communities, our focus was on the maintenance, monitoring, and restoration of multiple wetland sites. We also worked on developing key conservation tools, like the Wetland Ecosystem Services Protocol (WESP) and the Canadian National Wetland Inventory (CNWI), gathering essential data to support these initiatives. 

A significant part of our efforts was directed towards beaver conservation. We evaluated various sites for our ambitious ‘Water, Water Everywhere’ project, which aims to build 100 beaver dam analogues and create up to 10,000 wetlands by the end of 2025. 

Furthermore, we undertook the restoration of over 240 hectares, implementing strategies such as invasive species management and native planting. Public engagement and education were vital components of our mission. By conducting numerous workshops and events, we connected with over 3,500 individuals, spreading awareness and understanding of wetland conservation. Educating the public is crucial because it fosters a community spirit of stewardship, ensuring that the efforts in conservation and restoration are supported and continued by the wider community. This shared knowledge empowers people to contribute actively to the health of their local ecosystems, making a lasting impact on the preservation of our wetlands. 

See more images of our work here: BCWF Watershed Team | Flickr

Join Us: Lunch in the Wetlands Webinar Series

The B.C. Wildlife Federation presents Lunch in the Wetlands Lunch N’ Learn Webinar Series! Join BCWF staff in engaging presentations about wetland related topics from species ID to restoration techniques.

Date & Time: Friday, February 2 from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm 
Location: Zoom [Register at the link below]

Join Us: World Wetlands Day Event

Date & Time: Saturday, February 3 from 1 pm to 4 pm 
Location: Fernridge Hall, 2389 200th St, Langley 
Organized by the Little Campbell Watershed Society, this event offers a chance to engage in meaningful discussions about wetland conservation with experts over snacks and coffee. 

Join Us in Conservation Efforts 

There are multiple ways you can contribute to the B.C. Wildlife Federation’s conservation programs and initiatives throughout the province. Together we can conserve and protect BC’s fish, wildlife, and habitat for present and future generations. 

Ways to Get Involved: 

• Become a Member: Join the B.C. Wildlife Federation and engage in stewardship, research, and advocacy. Enjoy member-exclusive benefits, discounts, and insurance. Learn more at BCWF Membership. 
• Donate: Support our mission, programs, and initiatives by donating to the BCWF. Your contributions make a significant difference. Donate here. 
• Volunteer: Sign up to volunteer and help preserve British Columbia’s natural wonders. Whether it’s outreach, education, fundraising, or administration, every effort counts. Register at BCWF Volunteer (link in bio). 

More on The Benefits of Wetlands. Graphics courtesy of Ramsar (www.worldwetlandsday.org/).