It’s been an interesting and exciting time since we signed our first project contract in May 2021. After scoping our project with the help of Karlene Loudon and CoastRange Environmental, we spent a year working with Greg Kehm and TerrAdapt to deliver our biodiversity assessment framework. We spent last year working with Kate Andy, supported by John Gallo of the Conservation Biology Institute, to develop a wildlife connectivity model.
Draft connectivity network map being used for validating the connectivity model. Revisions to come in fall 2025!
This year, we’re busy with three key activities. First, we’re refining the model and producing connectivity network maps. Second, we’re working with many groups and individuals to identify ways our project results can help inform biodiversity conservation throughout our Sea to Sky region. Third, we’re developing a website that will help enable us to make the results of our project accessible to everyone for years to come.
This has been a huge project for a small group like ours and we’re grateful to everyone who has supported us. To date we have raised almost $650,000. About two-thirds of the funding has come from government sources, including Environment and Climate Change Canada (through the Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region), the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District, and the District of Squamish. Private foundations, including the Real Estate Foundation of BC, the Sitka Foundation, the MacLean Foundation, the BC Conservation and Biodiversity Awards Foundation, and the BC Naturalists’ Foundation, have provided over $140,000. Private donations from members and supporters have totalled an amazing $70,000. The impact of all this funding has been boosted by about $700,000 of in-kind volunteer contributions by Nature Squamish members. We’re still hoping to raise $35,000 to help us complete essential activities by our March 31, 2026 project end date. If you have questions about how you can help, please contact our Treasurer.
For more information:
- a project overview (July 2025)
- a report on our biodiversity assessment framework
- a web presentation on how Kate developed our connectivity model
If you have questions or want to get involved, please reach out to wildlife@squamishenvironment.ca .
Banner photo by permission: Project team members and staff of a Project partner explored an area identified by the model as a connectivity linkage.