WCS Canada Statement: Ross River Dena Council Memorandum of Understanding for new IPCA

The Ross River Dena Council, along with the Yukon Government and Government of Canada, signed a Memorandum of Understanding to examine the feasibility of a proposed protected area  in east-central Yukon.

We at WCS Canada are proud to support Ross River's inspiring commitment to stewarding their ancestral lands and the cultures of the Kaska People.

The proposed Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area (IPCA), spanning approximately 35,000km², is exceptionally ecologically intact. Such areas represent one of the best safeguards against the interdependent crises of climate change and biodiversity loss, which are threatening the ecological processes that sustain humans and all forms of life on Earth. The mountainous terrain, range of latitudes and elevations, and high connectivity also provide numerous refuges and opportunities for species to survive, adapt, and shift with climate change.

The region is home to 46 mammal species including seven mountain caribou herds, over 130 breeding bird species, salmon, whitefish, sheep, moose, and complete predator-prey assemblages. RRDC Traditional Knowledge recognizes the biocultural value of sites for caribou, traditional camps, heritage trails, and sacred sites, as well as rare species and unique varieties of wildlife. Conservation in the region is crucial for maintaining the resilience of these species to other cumulative pressures, including land use changes and invasive species.

This is the start of a long road, but we are excited to continue providing technical expertise in conservation science to support this rare and important opportunity.

Click here for the full press release from the Yukon Government.

WCS Canada has worked with RRDC for over a decade to provide technical and scientific expertise to help protect this ecologically and culturally significant region: https://wcscanada.org/resources/wcs-canada-conservation-report-18-towards-a-national-park-in-natural-region-7/